Billboards have long been a staple of American advertising, towering over highways and city streets. While their presence can liven up a dull commute through Memphis, there’s concern over their impact on driver attention. Distractions on the road can lead to accidents and injuries.
The allure of eye-catching billboards can be a double-edged sword. While businesses seek to capture the attention of potential customers, drivers may inadvertently take their eyes off the road. One study found a direct correlation between an increase in crashes and the presence of digital billboards, but distractions also occur with static billboards.
Understanding visual distractions on the road
Driving requires a high level of concentration and constant scanning of the environment. Billboards, especially those with bright colors, flashing lights or provocative messages, can distract drivers’ eyes from the road. Even a few seconds of inattention can be enough to miss crucial cues, such as brake lights or a pedestrian crossing, increasing the risk of an accident.
While it’s difficult to quantify the direct impact of billboards, they undoubtedly add to the array of distractions already present in a driver’s environment. This includes smartphones, dashboard controls and even conversations with passengers.
Though many factors contribute to road safety, minimizing distractions is crucial. Even drivers who are safe can be involved in a crash if a nearby driver takes their eyes off the road. Those victims have the option of seeking compensation through a personal injury claim. They can seek damages for the financial impacts of their injuries, including medical care costs, missed wages and similar expenses. Tennessee law sets time limits for filing these cases, so swift action is critical.
