When a California driver is behind the wheel, his or her priority should be the safe operation of the vehicle. This means paying attention, avoiding things that may be distracting and adhering to the rules of the road. This can be especially difficult if the vehicle itself includes certain features that increase the chance of distraction. For example, some Tesla vehicles come with technology that allow a driver to play video games.
How does vehicle design contribute to distracted driving?
It is now more common for vehicles to come with infotainment systems, yet the features in a Tesla vehicle are especially distracting. After a recent software update, drivers can play a video game while the vehicle is in motion. In order to play the game, the individual must acknowledge that he or she is not the one driving. However, it is quite simple to answer this question dishonestly, allowing a driver to play while also operating a moving vehicle.
Even if the driver is not the one playing the game, it can still be distracting while trying to pay attention to the road. While most vehicles don’t come with video games, there are many other things that can distract a driver. This includes cell phones, talking with passengers, eating or drinking, adjusting the radio and more.
Holding distracted drivers accountable
Each driver is responsible for the choices he or she makes while behind the wheel. This includes allowing things to take his or her attention from the task at hand. Victims of distraction-related accidents in California may have grounds to pursue compensation through a civil claim.