Dangers of Texting While Driving

Posted September 28, 2018

Every day, more than 1,160 people are injured in crashes involving a distracted driver, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In addition, the NHTSA claims that driver inattention is the leading contributor in most crashes or near-miss accidents in the United States.

Inattention on the Road

Of all crashes, over 90 percent involve driver inattention within a three-second window of the incident. The moral of the story: When motorists change radio stations, try to read maps use their phones, they are putting themselves and others at risk.

How Texting is Different

The most prevalent danger on roadways is texting while driving. Texting requires a motorist’s full attention, which inhibits his or her ability to pay attention to the road. This concern is by no means limited to everyday drivers; inattention due to texting has caused many occupational drivers to be involved in deadly roadway crashes. Here are some tips to avoid distractions on the road:

• Never use a cellphone in bad weather, work zones or heavy traffic. This includes the use of a hands-free device to make a call.
• Pull over in a safe area if you absolutely need to use your phone.
• Make all necessary calls before you start to drive. Also, consider setting up an automatic replies for when people call or text you while you’re driving.

It’s Against the Law

Most states have laws outlawing the use of cellphones and texting while driving. To avoid a ticket and a potentially dangerous accident, do not use your cellphone in any capacity while driving. Also, be sure to look up distracted driving rules that may be specific to your area or state.