With increasing awareness about the dangers of using hand held cell phones while driving, many motorists choose to use headphones or earbuds to operate their devices. However, police are warning that these motorists may be at a higher risk of accidents because they’re distracted by their headphones and may not be able to hear audible cues alerting them to an accident risk.
State Police and DoT Launch Headphones While Driving Initiative
Massachusetts State Police in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation have launched a new initiative that is aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of wearing headphones while driving. It is not just dangerous to wear headphones and earbuds while driving, but it is also against the law. Motorists are required to keep one ear free at all times.
The Department of Transportation plans to get the message across through a number of electronic signboards. According to police, people are now using their headphones, not just to have hands-free conversations, but also to listen to music and audio books. This means that their attention is diverted from the task of driving.
It’s important that motorists have all their senses, including their sense of hearing. You need to hear other motorists honking and also be able to hear other audible cues that could alert you to the risk of an accident.
There are other dangers involved with an increasing population of motorists wearing headphones or earbuds. These drivers are unable to hear the sirens of police vehicles or emergency vehicles, like ambulances or fire engines. There are instances where these emergency vehicles have been delayed because of a motorist who had his head phones on and couldn’t hear the siren.
Massachusetts Personal Injury Attorney Peter Ventura
If you were injured by a distracted driver, contact Peter Ventura. With 30 years of experience, he’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
