April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to highlight the serious risks posed by inattentive drivers. In Maryland, distracted driving remains a significant problem, contributing to thousands of crashes each year.
Maryland lawmakers are taking steps to address the growing concern of distracted driving by exploring a new kind of traffic enforcement tool: distracted driving cameras. These cameras, already being tested in Montgomery County, are designed to detect when drivers are using their cell phones behind the wheel.
'Alarming results' seen in preliminary testing
A bill has been proposed that would launch a pilot program in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. Backed by Senator Jeff Waldstreicher and other local lawmakers, the program would initially issue only warnings, giving drivers a chance to change their behavior before facing fines. If the pilot program proves successful, violators could eventually receive tickets up to $40, much like current speed and red-light camera systems.
The technology, developed by AI traffic safety company Obvio, is built to capture what’s in a driver’s hands without recording facial images or personally identifiable information.
According to Dhruv Maheshwari of Obvio, preliminary testing in Montgomery County already shows alarming results: nearly 30% of drivers observed at certain intersections were on their phones, with about 2,500 violations detected each day.
“The stats show that someone who's texting while they drive...it actually increases the risk of an accident by 23 times,” he said.
Distracted driving comes in many forms
Distracted driving is not limited to just texting behind the wheel. Any activity that diverts attention from the primary task of driving increases the risk of a crash, and with modern technology and busy lifestyles, distractions are more common than ever. There are three main types of distracted driving:
- Visual distraction – This occurs when a driver takes their eyes off the road. It might be something as quick as glancing at a text message or as prolonged as watching a video. Visual distractions also include adjusting GPS, checking a navigation app, or even looking at something happening outside the vehicle.
- Manual distraction – Manual distractions involve taking one or both hands off the steering wheel. Common examples include eating, adjusting the radio, handling a beverage, or reaching for something in the back seat. Even holding a phone, whether for texting or talking, can fall into this category.
- Cognitive distraction – Not all distractions are physical. Cognitive distractions happen when a driver’s mind is not focused on driving. This could be due to stress, fatigue, talking to passengers, or simply daydreaming. Even hands-free phone conversations can lead to a form of cognitive distraction.
If you’ve been injured in a crash, contact an experienced attorney
Distracted driving isn't just a bad habit – it’s a serious danger that can lead to life-altering injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. A momentary lapse in attention can cause a collision that leaves victims with serious injuries, especially at busy intersections or high-speed roadways. Victims of distracted driving crashes often face mounting medical bills, lost income, and long-term physical and emotional trauma.
At Goldberg Finnegan, our distracted driving accident lawyers understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a serious crash can be. Our attorneys know how to hold distracted drivers accountable and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under Maryland law.
We know how to investigate these complex cases and take on insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim. For instance, our results include a $4,975,000 recovery for a family who lost a loved one in a serious car accident.
Hit and injured by a distracted driver in Maryland? Don't wait to get the legal help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to listen, answer your questions, and discuss your potential legal options.
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