Drivers in California may be aware of the dangers of distracted driving and yet do nothing about it. It can become second nature to call, text and use in-vehicle technology behind the wheel. On the other hand, many drivers don’t even realize that eating, drinking, talking with passengers and changing radio stations can constitute distractions. Distracted driving crashes lead to an average of nine deaths and 100 injuries every day in this country.
This is where artificial intelligence may play an important role. Using the mechanics of deep learning and advances in computer visual technology, automakers can create cameras and sensors that monitor vehicle interiors and then issue navigational commands to the vehicle based on driver behavior. Engineers may make software algorithms that are sophisticated enough to predict all kinds of human behavior.
Too often, drivers can become used to alerts from their vehicle, so some automakers are working on a combination of alerts. For instance, an alert could change the color of the background of the dashboard, lower the volume of the radio or shut the radio off entirely.
Such features may become mandatory in the future as has happened with automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning systems. By 2020, all new vehicles in the U.S. will be equipped with these features.
Under personal injury law, distracted driving is a form of negligence, so victims of a distracted driver may be eligible for compensation. This might include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income and emotional trauma. To pursue a reasonable settlement, victims may want to retain legal counsel. A lawyer might hire third parties to build up the case and then negotiate for a settlement, litigating if one cannot be achieved or a low-ball settlement is offered.