Technology is an important part of the world today, but with improvements come dangers. People can stay in touch easier than ever before, but texting and driving is extremely dangerous.
Around 1.6 million crashes involve cellphone use, a statistic that may seem shocking, but not unlikely. Around 78 percent of drivers who were distracted when they crashed were texting behind the wheel.
Texting is hazardous to drivers and others
With one out of every four crashes involving texting, the importance of avoiding distractions behind the wheel can’t be overstated. It takes only around three seconds for a person to read or respond to a text message, but in three seconds, there’s more than enough time to become involved in a serious collision.
There is an increased risk of being involved in a crash if you text and drive. According to the statistics, you’re 23 times more likely to crash when you’re texting compared to when you aren’t.
Everyone is at risk when you text and drive
The reality is that people of all ages text and drive. Teens are most likely to text behind the wheel, with statistics showing that 11 teens die each year as a result of texting and driving. Around 20 percent of teens have admitted to continuing conversations through text while driving, while 10 percent of adults admitted to doing the same. Approximately 77 percent of adults admitted that they could text and drive at the same time easily, while 55 percent of teens felt the same way.
The statistics show an honest truth, which is that there is no place for texting and driving on the roads. Texting always creates a hazard, even if you only respond to one message. This is why drivers need to pay attention and put down their phones. Even a second looking away from the road is enough time to miss important signals that there could be a collision. Someone could pull out in front of you, or you could off the highway.
Victims of motorists who text and drive had no choice in that driver’s decision. If that’s you, remember that you are among many who have been injured due to other people’s poor decisions. You should seek medical care and follow through with any legal options that are open to you, so this doesn’t have to happen to others.