In 2026, distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of serious car accidents — but the dangers extend far beyond smartphones. While most drivers know that texting or calling while driving is illegal in Virginia, new research shows that in-car technology like touchscreens, voice assistants, built-in GPS systems and entertainment interfaces are creating fresh risks on the road.
The Shifting Face of Driver Distraction
Virginia’s hands-free law prohibits drivers from holding cell phones or wireless devices while operating a car — a law designed to reduce manual and visual distraction. Yet in 2024, distracted drivers still contributed to 18,688 crashes, 10,222 injuries, and 73 fatalities in the Commonwealth, with eyes off the road listed as the top driver action in these crashes.
But focusing solely on smartphones overlooks a growing threat: the technology built into the vehicle itself. Modern cars increasingly feature large infotainment touchscreens that combine navigation, radio, climate control, phone connectivity, and more — essentially turning dashboards into smartphone-like interfaces.
Touchscreens: A Hidden Danger
Research has found that many new vehicles include touchscreen center stacks that demand significantly more driver attention than traditional knobs and dials. These systems can require 5.5 seconds or more of a driver’s visual attention to complete simple tasks like adjusting temperature or changing music — compared to 1.5 seconds with physical controls. That may not sound like much, but glances away from the road longer than two seconds are known to greatly increase crash risk.
These distractions are not limited to young drivers. Older drivers are also increasingly distracted by built-in tech such as parking cameras, navigation displays and voice control menus — all of which can draw attention away from the road.
Voice Assistants and Infotainment Systems
Voice assistants and built-in GPS systems were designed to help drivers stay focused by offering hands-free command options. Yet studies show that cognitive distraction — when the driver’s mind is engaged with a task other than driving — can be just as dangerous as visual distractions. Talking to a voice assistant, trying to correct GPS directions, or interacting with complex vehicle menus can divide attention and slow reaction times.
Unlike phone use, which Virginia law specifically addresses, there are no state laws regulating use of infotainment systems or voice controls while driving. Title 46.2-1077 of the Virginia Code prohibits entertainment displays visible to drivers, but does not limit the use of navigation screens or digital controls — meaning the law hasn’t kept pace with modern vehicle technology.
What This Means for You
Distracted driving accidents can happen in a split second — whether a driver is texting, fighting with a touchscreen menu, or asking a voice assistant for directions. If you or a loved one are injured because another driver was distracted — including by in-car technology — you may be entitled to compensation under Virginia personal injury law.
At Hilton and Somer, we know how to investigate crashes, work with experts, and build a strong claim that holds negligent drivers accountable — no matter the distraction that caused the crash.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys
If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone. Help is available today. Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.
References:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving
https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/news/heads-end-distracted-driving-virginia
