Are Smartwatches Considered “Hands-Free” Devices When It Comes to Driving?

We all know the dangers of texting and using Smartphones while driving, but what about smartwatches? If you aren’t yet familiar with the latest craze in internet gadgets, you will be soon. With the release of Apple’s updated smartwatch, the devices are spiking in popularity, leading many experts to question how their use impacts the risk of distracted driving.

The debate about whether or not smartwatches are considered hands-free devices has recently been decided for us, with a very definitive answer. Although smartwatch use doesn’t necessarily require you to use your hands in the same way you do when picking up and swiping the screen of a smartphone, your hands are still involved in the process. If, for example, both hands are placed on the wheel, you will have to remove the hand with the smartwatch, tilt your wrist to read the message, and momentarily take your eyes off the road. And smartwatches can be even more distracting than a smartphone, requiring you to focus on a tiny, brightly lit screen to view the desired information. Motor vehicle accidents are expected to increase as the use of smartwatches and smartphones increases.

Smartwatches – More Dangerous Than Smartphones?

According to UK-based road safety group, the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), smartwatches have the potential to be more dangerous than smartphones. Smartphones can often be operated with one hand, while smartwatches always require the use of both hands. In addition, phones can easily be left in a pocket, handbag, center console, or glove box. Unfortunately, the location of a smartwatch will typically demand the attention of its wearer each time it sends notification of a message. Disciplining ourselves to keep our focus on the road has just become even more difficult. Contact a Boston Car Accident Attorney Today.

Hands-Free Laws

Many states, including Massachusetts, have “hands-free laws” requiring drivers to use only hands-free devices when driving. So, is it legal to use a smartwatch when behind the wheel? If it is not legal to use a hand-held device while driving, smartwatch device isn’t legal either. Of course, proving that a driver was actually using the watch affixed to his or her wrist will likely be difficult.

Use your head and avoid the dangers of distracted driving. Put your smartphone away while driving, and remove your smartwatch before you get behind the wheel. Your safety, and that of everyone you share the road with, depends on it.

Altman & Altman, LLP – Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers Serving Boston and the Surrounding Areas.

If you have been injured by a distracted driver, the skilled legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. We have been protecting the rights of accident and injury victims for more than 50 years. Distracted driving is a major problem today, and the problem is expected to grow significantly before it gets better. Your best defense against distracted drivers is to always drive defensively. Leave ample space between you and the vehicle in front of you, and keep your eyes and attention on the road at all times. If you have been harmed in any type of auto accident, we can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

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