Using Google Glass while driving an accident waiting to happen?

California is the home of Internet giant Google, and for anyone who hasn't heard by now, the company has a new cutting-edge product: Google Glass. The device is basically a wearable computer, with an image displayed in front of a person's eye as they wear the device like a set of eyeglasses. The device definitely sounds futuristic and fascinating, but there's trouble brewing.

According to a recent report, Google finds itself on the defensive in a number of states, as efforts are undertaken to make wearing the device while driving illegal. The main concern appears to be the perception that the device would be too much of a distraction for drivers, resulting in more car accidents that could cause serious injuries or even fatalities.

Because the device is so new, it can be hard to judge at this time whether or not the concerns are legitimate. Of course, in this day and age there are seemingly countless distractions for drivers, from more computer-oriented radios to the ever-present cell phone. Because of this, distracted drivers are now considered to be just as much of a concern on America's roadways as drunk drivers are.

For Google Glass, the debate is just beginning. But for millions of drivers throughout the country, distractions on the road present a serious and real concern. Any accident has the potential to cause serious injuries that could leave someone facing long-term medical care or permanent disability. When this happens, the associated medical expenses can be astronomical, which can then lead to lawsuits against negligent drivers to recover compensation. As the debate over distracted driving continues, it will be interesting to see where California stands on the issue.

Source: CBS News, "Google lobbies against ban on driving with Google Glass," Dan Levine, Feb. 25, 2014