Drivers in Ohio must constantly guard against distractions that take their attention off the road. Cellphones, dashboard touchscreens, interactions with passengers and other accidents represent leading sources of driver distraction. Due to the prevalence of these distractions, distracted driving accidents have become increasingly commonplace. The financial toll taken by distracted driving crashes has reached $40 million per year. The damages are second only to accidents resulting from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which produce $44 million in damages annually.
According to statistics from the National Safety Council, nine people lose their lives every day because of distracted driving. Approximately 100 people suffer injuries as well. The problem has caught the attention of artificial intelligence researchers who hope to create in-cabin vehicle systems that monitor drivers for distraction and alert them to correct their behavior.
Software engineers have been working to develop algorithms that analyze driver activity within a vehicle to detect distracted behavior. Sensors and cameras could monitor the driver, and the algorithm would interpret driver actions in real time. When drivers fail to pay attention to traffic, the system would then issue alerts or initiate braking or steering commands for the vehicle.
Although promising safety systems are in development, most drivers must rely on their own vigilance to operate their vehicles safely. A person injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by someone’s recklessness, inattention or intoxication might have a right to pursue compensation for medical expenses and lost income. An attorney may be able to protect an injured person from an insurer eager to settle a claim for a low amount. After collecting evidence, an attorney might take action to ensure that a liable party pays an adequate settlement. If discussions with an insurance adjuster fail, then an attorney may prepare the case for trial.
