Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog

When it comes to Chicago car accidents caused by distracted driving, there are many causes. But with each new model year, the number of distractions built right into your automobile is of increasing concern.

As we reported recently on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, some safety advocates are urging the government to focus on something other than cell phones when it comes to driver distraction and motorist safety.Some of the cases handled by our Chicago personal injury lawyers and wrongful death attorneys involve some form of driver distraction. Common distractions include eating, drinking, talking to passengers, smoking, applying makeup and, of course, using a cell phone.

But, as the USAToday reports, technology is playing an increasing role when it comes to distractions built right into your vehicle: Dashboard navigation systems, touch-screen climate control, GPS, satellite radio with 100s of channels, and even DVD systems built into headrests.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is expected to issue its first set of guidelines on the issue later this year. Meanwhile, there is no set standard. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which includes most major car makers except Honda, has its own procedures to reduce distraction caused by “information and communication systems.” Meanwhile, the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers reports that its members make their own decisions.

Recently, Consumer Reports found the new touch-screen computer in many Ford models (which controls the radio, temperature and navigation) is so complicated and potentially distracting that it dropped cars equipped with the system from its recommendation list.

Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood took General Motors to task last year when its OnStar communications system began allowing people to verbally update their Facebook or Twitter status while driving.

When it comes to in-car technology, it’s a brave new world. Regardless of new features, regulations by the government, or voluntary moves on the part of automobile manufacturers, motorists are best served by using common sense. Focus on driving, your life or the life of someone else could very well depend on it.

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Illinois authorities are launching a new campaign, “Drive Now. Text Later,” aimed at reducing the risk of distracted car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere in Illinois.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys frequently post on the dangers of distracted driving, both here and on our sister site, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog. As we reported last January, Illinois’ texting law went into effect Jan. 1, 2010, making it illegal to text while driving. The law also prohibits the use of hand-held cell phones in school zones and construction sites.Hand-held cell phone use by drivers has been prohibited within the City of Chicago since 2005. Nationwide, an estimated 5,000 motorists are killed and 500,000 are injured each year in accidents caused by distracted driving.

However, a recent online survey indicated 4 in 10 tollway customers did not know that it is illegal to text or e-mail while driving. The new campaign is being launched by the Illinois Department of Transportation in conjunction with Illinois State Police, The Illinois Secretary of State and AAA Chicago.

“We were surprised to learn that so many of our customers were simply not aware that texting while driving is illegal in Illinois,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Kristi Lafleur. “This campaign is intended to remind us of the potentially deadly consequences that go along with texting while driving. Our customers need to focus on safe driving and remember that they can’t do both.”

The campaign will include posters on tollbooths, as well as at rest stops, driver’s license facilities and elsewhere. Television and radio announcements are also planned along with bumper stickers and road-side message boards.

“With the increased use of technological devices, distracted driving has become a serious issue in our state and in the nation,” said Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White. “That’s why in 2009 we initiated the no texting while driving law in Illinois. No driver has any business text messaging while they are driving. Additionally, we initiated the ban on talking on cell phones in school zones and construction zones. By working together, we can educate the public on these life-saving laws and make the roads in Illinois the safest ever.”

You can visit the website for “Drive Now. Text Later” TV and radio announcements, the campaign logo and posters.

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Our Chicago personal injury lawyers published information here about winter driving safety to start the winter driving season. Earlier this month we posted Chicago winter driving tips on our Car Accident Lawyer Blog. And in December, we posted safety tips regarding the dangers of black ice in Chicago.

This winter is shaping up to be one of the toughest in recent memory in Illinois, throughout the Midwest and on the East Coast. On Monday, the Illinois Department of Transportation issued a disaster declaration ahead of what is expected to be the worst storm yet this season.”The entire Midwest region of the country is expected to be hit with a serious winter storm over the next few days, and it is important that we are prepared so that Illinois residents are safe and warm in the days ahead,” said Governor Pat Quinn. “We will be increasing efforts to make sure that our roads are clear and that our most vulnerable residents are staying indoors and staying warm.”

The state has activated the State Emergency Operations Center in Springfield, which will be manned around the clock for the storm’s duration. Those who do not have to travel are encouraged to help reduce the number of Chicago car accidents and emergency calls by staying put and remaining indoors.

“We’re working closely with local emergency management officials throughout the state to monitor conditions and be ready to provide whatever assistance they may need,” said Joe Klinger, interim director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). “But it’s also important that people prepare themselves for this storm by stocking their homes with food, water, flashlights, radios and other necessities.”

Motorists can check the conditions of Interstates by calling 1-800-452-4368 or by visiting www.gettingaroundillinois.com and clicking on Winter Road Conditions.

Neighbors and friends are also encouraged to check on older adults. The Illinois Department of Aging and the Illinois Department of Human Services will also be working around the clock.
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