Distracted driving is unsafe. Digital distraction, in particular, is at least partially illegal under current New Jersey statutes. The state prohibits the manual use of mobile technology while driving. People shouldn’t send or read text messages or post to social media while in control of a motor vehicle.
However, many people are eager to find a workaround, as their jobs may require constant contact with their bosses or their clients. Others just feel too dependent on their phones to ignore notifications. One solution that people frequently use to bypass the texting while driving statute involves talk-to-text software. Unfortunately, contrary to what many people believe, talk-to-text software does not necessarily prevent distraction while driving.
Talk-to-text software is its own distraction
Researchers have looked into how people act while using different forms of technology and operating a vehicle. Talk-to-text software can be a very significant distraction. The issue comes from how people handle their phones while using that software.
People know that the software isn’t particularly accurate. They may feel compelled to repeatedly look down at the transcription of their words. They may also tap through the message to correct it before sending it. In other words, talk-to-text distraction doesn’t just create a similar degree of distraction.
It may actually cause more intense distraction that lasts for longer than the distraction involved in typing out a two-word response. Although New Jersey law does allow for the use of hands-free technology, state websites do warn drivers that they should avoid all digital distractions, even if there are workarounds that do not technically break the law.
Although people may feel anxious about waiting to respond to a text or email, ignoring a phone while driving is the best and safest option. There is truly no safe workaround for using digital devices while driving. If nothing else, they cause profound mental or cognitive distraction that can prevent people from properly monitoring their surroundings.
Individuals who encounter distracted drivers in traffic may end up involved in crashes caused by those motorists. Those hurt in distracted driving wrecks often need help pursuing compensation from the motorist who made dangerous choices in traffic. Filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit could help people cover the expenses caused by a distracted driver.
