Vehicles often implement the most cutting-edge technology to attract buyers. Manufacturers integrate impressive works of technology ranging from backup cameras, which have now become standard, to lane departure warning systems. Some vehicles even have assistive technology intended to help them operate with minimal human support in real-time.
Certain vehicles have programming that can take over much of the task of operating a motor vehicle. Drivers in Maryland may find themselves lulled into a false sense of safety and confidence by assistive technology. They may also have incorrect assumptions about hands-free technology when using mobile devices while driving.
What does the law say about the technologically advanced systems integrated into many modern vehicles and mobile devices?
The technology is for support, not actively driving
Even brands that claim their vehicles can operate autonomously cannot ensure the proper operation of their software and vehicles. A driver needs to be ready to respond in an instant even when using such technology.
There have been numerous recalls of self-driving vehicles and the software that allows them to run. Drivers in Maryland should be aware that they cannot lay the blame for a crash on a manufacturer because of assistive driving technology.
They are ultimately still legally culpable for any crash that they cause. Ignoring the road while relying on assistive driving technology is a form of negligence that might make someone legally and financially responsible for a wreck.
Hands-free software does not eliminate liability
Maryland’s law very clearly prohibits the manual use of handheld communication devices while operating a motor vehicle. At most, drivers can disconnect calls or use a single button to connect to another party. They may be able to use built-in systems to connect a call over the vehicle’s sound system.
Hands-free devices that read incoming messages or convert speech to text do not necessarily make manually using a device while driving legal or safe. A motorist could still face citations for violating distracted driving statutes.
They could also be liable for any crash they cause in that situation. The technology that people view as cutting-edge is impressive but does not eliminate the responsibility of drivers to pay attention to their surroundings and follow Maryland traffic laws.
Those involved in crashes caused by those with assisted driving technology in their vehicles or someone using talk-to-text software while driving may have grounds for an insurance claim or possibly a civil lawsuit against a driver who made unsafe decisions in traffic. Learning about Maryland’s rules for the changing technology present in motor vehicles is important for those trying to follow the law, as well as those who need to mitigate the consequences of a recent crash.