Several recent studies have found that hands-free devices can create driver distractions
PORTLAND, Maine (June 23, 2015) – Driving and talking on a hands-free cell phone might seem safe, but many recent studies have found that accidents can still happen while drivers are operating a phone without their hands, a risk that more drivers need to be aware of, according to attorney Joe Bornstein of the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein of Portland, Maine.
“Drivers need to know there are risks associated with talking on the phone while driving, even if it’s a hands-free device,” Bornstein said. “Many recent studies have found that people can only process so much information at one time. And that includes driving and talking on the phone at the same time.”
“That’s the myth of using hands-free devices while driving – that it’s completely safe,” Bornstein added. “And drivers need to start thinking about these issues more as cars become more and more automated. Just because something is more convenient doesn’t automatically mean it’s safer.”
The National Safety Council (NSC) cited several studies in the organization’s on-going campaign to warn drivers about the dangers of hands-free driving. (National Safety Council, “Hands-free is not risk free.) Specifically, the NSC notes that “activity in the area of the brain that processes moving images decreases by up to one-third when listening to talking on a phone.” In addition, the NSC notes that “drivers looking out the windshield can miss seeing up to 50 percent of what’s around them when talking on any kind of a cell phone.”
The NSC also notes the difference between a driver talking to a passenger in the car versus talking to someone on the phone. Specifically, the NSC notes that a passenger and a driver are looking at the same road at the same time. As a result, the passenger can serve as another set of eyes and stop talking if they notice challenging traffic conditions.
No state bans drivers from using hands-free cell phones, but Maine lawmakers have been considering a measure that would make it illegal to use a mobile phone while driving if it is not connected by a hands-free device. (Bangor Daily News, April 14, 2015: “Maine Senate votes to ban use of hand-held cellphones while driving”)
“While driving technology continues to change rapidly, we need to remember that drivers can only do so many things at one time,” Bornstein said. “Drivers must remember to stay focused while operating a vehicle. Even if though Maine allows drivers to use hands-free devices, we remind drivers to think about the consequences of their decisions.”
About the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein
Since 1974, attorney Joe Bornstein and his experienced legal team have represented over 23,000 Mainers and have given these clients much-needed access to justice in their injury and disability claims. The law firm has a statewide practice with six conveniently located offices in Maine. Joe and his staff of over 65 legal professional have met with Mainers in hospital rooms and living rooms – and, other locations convenient to the clients – throughout the state of Maine. Joe’s law firm has collected over $200 million in settlements and benefits for injured and disabled clients.
The attorneys work on all types of personal injury claims, including auto accidents, construction site accidents, trucking accidents, motorcycle accidents, dog bite injuries, premises liability claims, product liability claims, and the like. The firm also has a team of lawyers and legal professionals who represent clients in their Social Security Disability claims. The firm can also give assistance in veterans disability claims, maritime and admiralty claims/injuries at sea, medical malpractice claims and workers’ compensation claims. Bornstein and his staff have a well-deserved reputation as one of Maine’s best-known and successful law firms.