Would you believe that your car’s infotainment system is a less distracting device than your smartphone? That’s what automakers would have you believe, however, that could be a dangerous misconception. Professor David Strayer works with AAA’s Foundation for Traffic Safety, and his latest study may change your mind about distracted driving and the infotainment system in your car.

Does a Vehicle’s Infotainment System Cause Distracted Driving?

A spokesman for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers told Fox News that vehicle integrated infotainment systems are specifically “designed to be used in the driving environment.” Because of this, these systems require the same amount of attention as what a driver uses when they adjust the radio or climate controls. But what AAA’s researchers have uncovered puts that evaluation under suspicion.

Strayer collected 30 vehicles—all 2017 models—and ran tests on their various infotainment systems to find out how distracting they can be to drivers. Over the course of this testing, researchers found that GPS navigation systems distracted drivers for an average of 40 seconds, or four football fields if you’re driving at 25 mph. As a comparison, removing your eyes from the road for just two seconds can double your chances of crashing.

Are There Other Dangers When Using Infotainment Systems?

The second most dangerous activity you can perform on an infotainment system also happens to be one of the worst things you can do on your cellphone while driving—texting. And even voice command systems provide a distraction, since the menus to control them are often complicated and frustrating to navigate.

These researchers are recommending that manufactures start locking out certain infotainment features when the automobile is moving. However, with technological features being in high demand among car buyers, it is very unlikely that these companies will act. It may take efforts like legislation or significant product liability lawsuits to jumpstart a response to this newest safety concern.

This message was brought to you by the safety lawyers at Metier Law Firm—we are here for your comfort, safety and strength.