Is In-Car Wi-Fi a Dangerous Technology? Van Zandt Accident Lawyer Investigates

Cars in the near future are likely to be more connected than ever before. Manufacturers are now experimenting with built-in Wi-Fi, which may pave the way for driverless vehicles.

There are several ways that Wi-Fi can improve vehicle safety – namely, it can prevent human error from causing accidents. However, critics point out that distracted driving has reached epidemic levels, and adding Wi-Fi could make drivers more likely to use smartphones and other mobile devices.

Distracted driving is one of several forms of negligence, and if you were injured in an accident with a distracted driver in Texas, then the Cooper Law Firm may be able to assist. A Van Zandt truck accident lawyer can evaluate your crash and determine if you may have valid grounds for a lawsuit. Call us today at 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation.

Until then, read on to learn the pros and cons of built-in Wi-Fi in vehicles:

Accident Avoidance Technology

Crash avoidance is the main benefit of installing Wi-Fi in vehicles. This technology can identify other vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and road hazards, and notify the driver or take evasive action. Primitive versions of this safety feature are already available, such as blind spot detection, but Wi-Fi could take it a step further.

Cars, pedestrians and cyclists – or the smartphones they carry – can have Wi-Fi enabled sensors that communicate with one another. If the driver is distracted, falls asleep or is otherwise unable to take evasive action, then the vehicle can respond appropriately. Several car manufacturers are contributing vehicles to a nationwide study, and this technology could be a reality in the near future.

Wi-Fi Could Lead to More Distractions in Vehicles

At the same time, critics claim that Wi-Fi may increase the number of accidents related to distracted driving. According to The Verge, some studies show that distracted driving is more dangerous than drunk driving, and in-vehicle Wi-Fi may tempt drivers to use cell phones or other mobile devices behind the wheel.

While the introduction of high-speed internet may pave the way for driverless cars in the future, the transition is likely to be slow as the true risks of this technology remain unknown. It’s no secret that the proliferation of smartphones, tablets and other devices have increased the number of distracted driving accidents, and vehicle manufacturers must consider the dangers of Wi-Fi before it becomes a standard feature.

When to Contact an Accident Lawyer

The aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and traumatic. This is especially true if the collision involved injuries or significant property damage.

If you were injured in a crash with a negligent driver, then you may be entitled to compensation to pay for lost wages, medical expenses and other damages. A Van Zandt accident lawyer from the Cooper Law Firm can evaluate your case and guide you through the claims process. Call us today at 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation.