Texting and Driving Accident Statistics Distracted Driving
By Ben Gobel on September 10, 2024
Distracted driving is a significant and growing problem on our roads today. It involves any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your cell phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, or fiddling with the stereo, entertainment, or navigation system.
These distractions can be categorized into three main types: visual, manual, and cognitive.
Visual Distractions include taking your eyes off the road, such as looking at your cell phone or GPS. This also includes checking your makeup or looking at passengers.
Manual Distractions: Taking your hands off the wheel, like when you’re texting or eating, adjusting the radio, or reaching for items, also falls into this category.
Cognitive Distractions: Taking your mind off driving which can happen when you’re daydreaming or having an intense conversation. Stress, fatigue, and emotional distress can also divert your mental focus from driving.
Texting and driving creates an enormous potential for motor vehicle crashes. This dangerous behavior involves diverting attention from driving to sending or reading text messages on your cell phone, which significantly increases the risk of a car accident. Texting while driving is particularly hazardous because it combines all three types of distractions: visual, manual, and cognitive.
Texting While Driving Statistics
Texting and driving dangers are enormous and wide-ranging. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA), in 2022, there were 3,308 distracted driving fatalities and nearly 290,000 people injured in motor vehicle crashes involving texting and driving. Recent distracted driving statistics show that texting on your cell phone while driving increases the risk of a car crash by 23 times compared to driving without distractions.
Additionally, a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that drivers who text on cell phones are eight times more likely to be involved in car accidents.
The Impact of Distracted Driving on Road Safety
The consequences of accidents caused by distracted driving are severe. These accidents can result in fatalities, serious injuries, and significant property damage. Common injuries from distracted driving accidents include whiplash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Beyond the physical harm, accidents involving distracted drivers can lead to emotional trauma and financial burdens due to medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
The ripple effects of cell phone use while driving extend to families and communities, causing emotional distress and altering lives forever. Victims of a distracted driver car accident may face long-term disabilities, impacting their quality of life and ability to work. The societal costs are also substantial, with increased healthcare expenses and the need for ongoing support services. Distracted drivers not only endanger themselves but also passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. Texting and driving are critical public safety issues that demand immediate attention and action.
Legal Implications of Texting While Driving
Causing an accident while texting can have serious legal consequences. In Pennsylvania, distracted driving laws are stringent. The state banned texting while driving, and violators
can face fines and points on their driving records. If a distracted driver causes an accident, they can be held liable for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In severe cases like fatal crashes, they may also face criminal charges.
In addition, insurance premiums can skyrocket for those found guilty of texting and driving. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties, including license suspension. Victims seeking compensation for their injuries and losses can also file civil lawsuits. The legal ramifications extend beyond immediate penalties, affecting the driver’s record and financial stability for years to come. It’s crucial to understand that texting while driving is not just a minor traffic violation but a serious offense with long-lasting consequences.
Consider These Tips for Safe Driving
To combat the dangers of distracted driving, it’s essential to adopt safe driving habits. Here are some tips to help you stay focused and secure on the road:
Put Your Phone Away: Keep your phone out of reach while driving. Use apps that block incoming texts and calls or set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode.
Plan Ahead: Set your GPS, select your music, and make any necessary calls or texts before you start driving.
Stay Focused: Keep your attention on the road and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid multitasking while driving.
Take Breaks: If you’re on a long drive, take regular breaks to rest and refresh. Fatigue can be a significant distraction.
Educate Others: Encourage friends and family to practice safe driving habits. Lead by example and spread awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.
Use Hands-Free Devices: If you must use your phone, use hands-free devices to minimize manual and visual distractions.
Avoid Eating and Drinking: Save meals and snacks for when you’re not driving. Eating and drinking can take your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road.
Stay Calm and Composed: Emotional distress can be a distraction. If you’re upset or stressed, take a moment to calm down before driving. This helps maintain focus and ensures safer driving.
Stay Alert, Stay Alive: The Importance of Focused Driving
Distracted driving, particularly texting while driving, poses a significant threat to road safety. The statistics are alarming, and the consequences can be devastating. Drivers must stay focused and avoid distractions to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. At Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky, we are committed to raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and advocating for the rights of those affected by these preventable accidents.
By adopting safe driving habits and educating others about the risks, we can collectively reduce the number of car accident deaths. Remember, no text or call is worth risking your life or the lives of others. Stay alert, stay alive, and make our roads safer for everyone. If you or a loved one has been affected by a distracted driving accident, our experienced car accident attorneys in Steel City are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the compensation you deserve.