11 Apr Texting Drivers Are Making American Roads Even Worse
Bloomberg recently posted an article titled “Texting Drivers are Making American Roads Even Worse”, which is available here. The article cites data which indicates mobile phone usage spikes around 4 p.m., which coincides with after work commutes. Of the 4.5 million people monitored, two-thirds of drivers used their phone at least once. That is a scary statistic.
In 2015, distracted driving claimed over 3400 lives, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Cell phone usage was highest among 16-24 year old drivers. It is important to teach the importance of safe, distraction-free driving to young drivers. One of the best ways to do this is by setting a good example when driving. Adults, as well as young drivers, need to drive distraction free. Consider turning on the “Do Not Disturb” setting on your phone if it is available.
Many people “limit” their phone usage while driving to when they are approaching a stop light/sign or while fully stopped. The issue with this strategy is that anything can happen when not fully stopped, including a sudden stop by the car in front or something coming in front of the vehicle. When stopped, if a driver is not paying attention, he can miss cross traffic or someone turning in front of the driver, potentially leading to an automobile collision. While “limited use” drivers may think they are being safe, these texting drivers are making American roads even worse.
As the prevalence of smart phones and social media usage increased, it created a dangerous hazard by increasing the number of distracted and texting drivers on the road. Please make a pledge to just put your phone down when driving.
Tarun B. Rana, Esq.
Address: 655 Craig Rd, Ste 252, St. Louis, MO 63141
Phone: 314-329-7690
Facsimile: 314-735-4097
Email: tarun@ranalawgroup.com
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