Partner
In today’s hyper-connected world, wearable technology, such as smartwatches, has become nearly as common as the smartphones they sync with. From managing calls and texts to tracking fitness and calendar reminders, these devices offer convenience on the go. But when you’re behind the wheel, that convenience can become a dangerous distraction.
We all know the risks of texting or using a smartphone while driving. Laws across the country—and in Texas specifically—have been passed to curb this behavior and reduce roadway accidents. However, the rise of smart watches has introduced a new gray area. Are smart watches just as distracting as smartphones? And how should drivers respond to this new risk? Keep reading this blog from Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group for more information.
The Rise of Smart Watch Use Behind the Wheel
Smart watches are designed to offer hands-free access to many of the same features available on a smartphone. They buzz with notifications, offer voice-to-text capabilities, and even allow users to answer calls directly from their wrist. While these features may seem less obtrusive than picking up a phone, they can be just as disruptive when you’re operating a vehicle.
Unlike smartphones, smart watches often require subtle but repeated gestures—glancing down at your wrist, swiping or tapping the screen, or lifting your arm to speak. These actions, although seemingly minor, divert your eyes and attention from the road. Studies have shown that even momentary distractions can significantly increase the risk of an accident.
What Does the Law Say?
Texas has been proactive in addressing distracted driving. Under Texas Transportation Code § 545.4251, drivers are prohibited from using a “wireless communication device” for reading, writing, or sending electronic messages while operating a motor vehicle—unless the vehicle is stopped. This includes texting and many other forms of interaction with a smartphone.
However, the law doesn’t specifically mention smart watches. This omission raises questions about whether interacting with a smart watch constitutes illegal distracted driving. While a driver might argue that glancing at their wrist is less dangerous than using a handheld phone, the reality is that any action that takes your eyes off the road or your mind off driving can be deemed negligent if it leads to an accident.
Moreover, if an accident occurs and the driver was interacting with a smart device—even one not covered explicitly by the law—a court may still find them liable under general negligence principles.
Comparing Smart Watches and Smart Phones
Both smartphones and smart watches can impair driving, but they do so in slightly different ways:
- Visual Distraction: Smartphones usually require drivers to look down and interact with a larger screen, making the distraction more apparent. Smart watches, by contrast, involve shorter glances but more frequent ones, creating a cumulative visual distraction.
- Manual Distraction: Phones typically require two hands (or at least one full hand), while watches may only require a wrist movement. That said, swiping, tapping, or speaking to a watch can still impair hand control.
- Cognitive Distraction: Whether you’re dictating a message on your phone or replying to a text via voice on your watch, your mind is no longer fully on driving. Smart watches can foster a false sense of safety, encouraging more frequent use and resulting in sustained cognitive distraction.
In essence, while the form of interaction may differ, the impact on a driver’s attention can be equally harmful.
Best Practices for Safe Driving with Wearables
As wearable tech becomes more integrated into everyday life, it’s important to develop habits that prioritize road safety. Here are a few tips for using smart watches responsibly:
- Enable Driving Mode: Many smart watches allow users to limit notifications while driving. Activating a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode can reduce temptation and improve focus.
- Mute Notifications: Silence your watch or disable alerts during trips. This will prevent you from glancing down at every buzz or ping.
- Use Voice Assistants Sparingly: While voice commands seem safer, they can still occupy your cognitive attention. If you must use a voice assistant, keep interactions brief and infrequent.
- Pull Over if Needed: If you receive an urgent notification or need to respond to a message, pull over safely before interacting with your device.
- Lead by Example: If you’re a parent, modeling responsible tech behavior while driving can influence young drivers in your household to adopt safer habits.
Legal Liability and Distracted Driving Accidents
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and believe the other driver was distracted by a smart watch or similar device, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Proving distraction can be challenging but not impossible. Data from devices, eyewitness testimony, and expert analysis may all play a role in building your case.
Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group has decades of experience representing victims of distracted driving accidents. His in-depth knowledge of Texas personal injury law and commitment to thorough case investigation ensure that clients receive the representation they need to seek justice and fair compensation.
Final Thoughts
Technology will constantly evolve, but our responsibility to drive safely remains constant. Whether it’s a smartphone or a smart watch, the consequences of distracted driving can be severe. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a distracted driver, don’t navigate the legal system alone—consult with an experienced attorney who understands both the law and the latest tech-related risks.
Contact Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group today to schedule a free consultation and learn how he can help you move forward.