Compton Law July 2018

WHAT DOES NEW TECHNOLOGY MEAN FOR DRIVERS?

A recent accident involving a self-driving Uber resulted in the death of a pedestrian in Tempe, Arizona. The Uber car did not stop, slow down, brake, or swerve when the pedestrian entered the crosswalk. Although there was a driver in the vehicle, the driver was looking away from the windshield. As this incident highlights, there are many unknown variables when it comes to the safety of autonomous vehicles. Although they hold great promise in creating safer driving experiences, consumers should be aware of the technological benefits and pitfalls associated with new or driverless cars. For example, in new automobiles, smartphones can be integrated into the car. When a person integrates their phone with their car, a driver can receive notifications, answer emails, and send text messages all while driving. Even for those without full smartphone integration, there is a temptation to fiddle with a cellphone while driving. Insurance companies have been tracking accidents caused by distracted driving, and they are now collecting data to punish drivers who use smartphones. Allstate’s subsidiary, Arity, can monitor in-car smartphone use using the smartphone’s accelerometer and gyroscope to sense if the device is moving or not.

activated navigation system, preferring instead to look down at handheld devices like a smartphone or tablet. In addition, many parents are choosing vehicles that come with DVD players and screens. In some cars, this means that more than one screen is playing both sound and video while the driver is trying to focus on the road. In both instances, the driver becomes distracted — they’re either unable to concentrate on the road in front of them or looking away from it entirely.

Despite the intentions of automakers to use technology to make driving safer, accidents will still happen. Since technology is evolving rapidly, it’s important for people involved in accidents to consult with an attorney who can assess the impact of various technologies and the liability of each party. Contact our experienced personal injury attorney right away by calling 405-542-CLAW (2529), and one of our Oklahoma Personal Injury Lawyers will help you get what you deserve.

Almost all new cars include a form of GPS system, which is often voice-activated. However, many drivers do not use the voice-

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BLUE CHEESE BUFFALO DOGS AND CELERY SLAW

No matter where you stand on the great ketchup versus mustard debate, you’ll love these spicy, tangy, easy-to-make buffalo dogs. They’re the perfect way to elevate your Fourth of July cookout.

INGREDIENTS

For Celery Slaw •

1 package of your favorite hot dogs

4 celery stalks, very thinly sliced

1 package hot dog buns

1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

1 bottle Frank’s RedHot sauce

2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

4 ounces crumbled blue cheese

1 teaspoon olive oil

Celery salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

3. Assemble hot dogs, douse with hot sauce, and top with celery slaw. 4. Top with blue cheese, add another splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling extra spicy, and serve.

1. For slaw, toss all ingredients together and season with celery salt and pepper. 2. Grill hot dogs and toast buns.

Inspired by Bon Appetit magazine

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