Recent fatal accidents in Shenandoah National Park underscore an increasing trend in motorcycle fatalities in Virginia over the last decade. Between 2001 and 2009, Virginia motorcycle fatalities increased by nearly 62 percent-from 44 to 71. In the first six months of 2010, 38 motorcyclists were killed-a 19 percent increase from the first half of 2009. With the number of Virginian motorcycle registrations increasing, the number of motorcycle accident fatalities is almost sure to continue climbing.
Automakers' Mixed Messages Regarding Distracted Driving
In 2009 Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood launched a national campaign to ban texting while driving in response to startling stories about lives lost to distracted driving, as well as statistics highlighting a disturbing trend. Since then, more than 30 states have enacted laws banning texting while behind the wheel, and some states have banned the use of handheld devices while driving altogether. Last year LaHood considered an outright ban on the use of all electronic devices in motor vehicles. He wanted to limit as many cognitive distractions in an effort to reduce the number of truck and car accidents.
It appeared as if major automakers would follow his lead. Through its "Driving Skills for Life" program, Ford Motors sponsored clinics in a number of high schools to educate teenage drivers on the importance of following traffic laws and avoiding distractions. BMW introduced a series of ads highlighting the risks of distracted driving under its "Don't Txt & Drive" campaign. The Alliance of Automotive Manufacturers also worked with the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons to promote safe driving practices.
But just as they are promoting safe driving habits, automakers are working diligently to include new interactive media systems to attract younger drivers for vehicles such as the Chevorlet Cruze and Ford Focus. GM's new OnStar system would allow drivers to use voice commands to update Facebook pages while behind the wheel, and Ford's SYNC system would allow social networking and web browsing capabilities. BMW's Connected Drive system would display emails, call logs and text read-backs on a dashboard screen.
Welcome to Our Fairfax Personal Injury, Criminal Defense and Family Law Blog
We established this blog to share stories and information about topics relevant to our practice. Our intent is to highlight local stories, as well as national subject matter, that we think you will find interesting. We will regularly update this blog and encourage you to share your thoughts on these posts.
Comments: Leave a comment
