With California being a top spot for large outdoor advertising, billboards are a common sight along the state’s highways and busy streets. They primarily aim to catch the attention of drivers and passengers as they pass by. However, their role in traffic safety is controversial and a concern for many.
A cause for distracted driving
One of the top causes of motor vehicle accidents is driver distraction. This could be a result of diversion inside the vehicle, such as texting, eating or talking to a passenger, or outside distractions, such as large ads.
Advertisers design billboards to attract attention, which means they can potentially distract drivers. Ironically, some billboard ads promote traffic safety messages. Reading the content of the ad, even for split second, increases the risk of an accident.
An ongoing debate
There are mixed opinions about billboards being a cause of road accidents. Some say they are distracting, especially if it is particularly large, bright or has moving images, while others say there is no significant increase in the chances of crashes associated with billboards.
Knowing what to do
As a car crash victim, proving the responsible driver was distracted can be challenging, especially with certain forms of distraction, such as engaging with passengers or reading a billboard. Nonetheless, this shouldn’t discourage victims from holding the responsible party accountable.
If you were injured in a car accident due to distracted driving, seeking advice from an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can benefit you in building a persuasive case. This can also help you make informed and timely decisions to increase the chances of receiving the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.