Head-Up Displays in Vehicles are Distracting Drivers

If you’ve ever been in a flight simulator, or know someone who has, then you’re probably already familiar with a head-up display. A head-up display (literally named, because its intention is to help drivers keep their head up while on the road) is a form of technology that projects relevant navigation instruments and information onto the windshield of a car. The head-up display projects information onto the windshield in the form of transparent, illuminated graphics that are easy for the driver to see without impairing their view. Instead of lowering their head to see the instrument panel, drivers can keep their eyes on the road while still being able to see their speed, direction of travel, and even warning alerts to help avoid a collision.

For automobile makers, the head-up display is an integral part of overall driver safety. Because drivers are no longer required to look down, there is no longer a reason for drivers to take their eyes off of the road, thus resulting in a safer driving experience. Some companies are even adding additional functionality to their head-up displays which would allow drivers to receive and respond to text messages or post to social media without having to look away from the road.

But this new technology, as safety-conscious as it may appear, is not without its critics. Jacob Nelson, the Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy for AAA, believes the new technology has the potential to be more of a distraction than a safety feature. “The risk is that if we are projecting information on the windshield or in the forward driving environment that isn’t integral to the core task of driving, then we’re overloading the driver,” said Nelson.

Nelson isn’t alone when it comes to concerns about head-up display distractibility. Many others feel the potential for distraction could be problematic, especially since technological advancements of any kind are known to cause distracted driving.

Despite the mixed opinions, head-up displays are already available in many car models, including those made by BMW, Lexus, Mercedes, and Cadillac.

In short, drivers are encouraged to form their own opinions about head-up displays. If a driver feels the technology is useful, they may end up driving more safely. And if a driver feels the technology is more of a distraction, they have the option to disable it at any time.

If you or a loved one has sustained injuries or property damage due to the carelessness of a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact one of the knowledgeable, licensed injury attorneys based in Phoenix at Phillips Law Group today to schedule a FREE consultation by calling 1-800-706-3000 .