In many ways, auto technology has made people better drivers. An example of this is a backup camera. When backup cameras were first developed, they were a bonus option that drivers could choose. But it was quickly clear that they were preventing so many accidents backup cameras are now standard equipment, and all new cars produced in the United States have them.

Technology can also help to prevent crashes  in a variety of scenarios. A lane departure warning system can keep a distracted driver from drifting over the centerline. A blind spot monitoring system can alert a driver if another vehicle is in their blind spot on the interstate, potentially avoiding a crash  if that driver tries to merge into the other lane.

Why would this make people worse drivers?

One criticism of this technology is that people are actually becoming worse drivers by relying too much on technology.   Instead of focusing on driving safely, some drivers are relying on the technology of their vehicles to avoid crashes. However,  that may not always be the safest option.

For example, is a driver in a car with a full sensor array going to feel more confident that it is safe for them to text and drive? It’s not safe to text and drive, and it is illegal in most every state.  However, some  drivers may assume that the auto technology  will prevent a crash, if they are distracted by texting, and not view texting while driving as posing the danger which it does.  When drivers become too reliant on technology,  they may not focus as much on driving safely, which can lead to crashes even with modern technology.

Have you been injured?

Technology can make the roads safer, and it is always improving, but crashes still happen. If you have been injured in a crash caused by another driver, you may be able to seek financial compensation.