Texting and driving is a growing epidemic in the United States, and it’s an issue that’s been gaining attention among the general public in recent years. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving is responsible for 3,477 deaths in the United States in 2015 alone. Of those deaths, nine percent were attributed to distracted driving due to cell phone use. With the sheer volume of cars on the roads, it’s no surprise that texting and driving is a major factor in the number of auto accidents.
Texting and driving can be defined as the act of sending and reading text messages while driving. It’s a dangerous practice because when sending or receiving a text, the driver’s attention and focus are taken away from the road, resulting in a potential accident. In addition to the lack of focus, texting and driving can also lead to slower reaction times, as well as an inability to fully pay attention to the environment around them.
The use of cell phones while driving has been an issue for years, but with the rise of smartphones, texting and driving has become even more dangerous. Smartphones have allowed users to access emails, social media, and so much more while on the go, and all of these distractions can pull a driver’s focus away from the road. With so many activities easily accessible at the touch of a button, it’s no wonder why more and more people are turning to their phones while driving.
The prevalence of texting and driving has led to a number of states passing laws banning cell phone use while behind the wheel. For example, in California it’s illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it’s in a hands-free mode, such as an earpiece or speakerphone. Other states have similar laws, as well as laws that ban texting and driving specifically. These laws are a step in the right direction, but unfortunately, they don’t seem to be enough to curb the problem.
The problem of texting and driving is compounded by the fact that many people still don’t see the issue as a serious one. From teenagers who think they can get away with it, to adults who think they’re too good of a driver to be affected by it, texting and driving remains a prevalent issue. To combat this, it’s important for drivers to understand the dangers of texting and driving, as well as the legal ramifications.
It’s also important for drivers to take responsibility for their actions and to do their part to make sure they’re not endangering themselves or anyone else on the roads. This means keeping your phone put away while driving, refraining from texting and driving, and using hands-free devices when available. Additionally, it’s important to set a good example for younger drivers and to educate them on the dangers of texting and driving.
The issue of texting and driving is a serious one, and it’s one that needs to be addressed in order to reduce the number of auto accidents. Through education and awareness, as well as stricter laws, it’s possible to combat this growing epidemic. By taking the necessary steps, it’s possible to make sure that the roads are safe for everyone.
