The Dangers of Texting and Driving: How To Avoid Distraction on the Road
Texting and driving presents a dangerous combination of two activities that require a person’s full attention. Drivers who text while they’re behind the wheel can pose serious danger to themselves, their passengers, and other drivers on the road. It’s important to recognize the risks that come with this behavior and take steps to avoid it.
Texting and driving is an incredibly dangerous activity, as it takes a person’s focus away from the task of driving and can lead to catastrophic accidents. According to the National Safety Council, texting while driving is six times more likely to cause an accident than drunk driving. Additionally, drivers who text while driving are 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident or near-accident than non-distracted drivers.
Texting and driving is especially hazardous for younger drivers, who are still learning the rules of the road and may be more likely to take risks. Unfortunately, studies have shown that teens are more likely to engage in distracted driving than adults. Around 80 percent of teens admit to texting and driving, and more than 10 percent of fatal car crashes involving drivers aged 16 to 19 were due to texting and driving.
It’s not just texting that can cause distractions while driving. Cell phone use, including talking, looking at a map, or using a voice-activated navigation system, can also lead to dangerous situations. Any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road is considered a distraction, and can be dangerous.
The best way to avoid distraction while driving is to put away cell phones and other devices. If you need to make a call or look at a map, pull over and park safely before doing so. If you must take a call or write a text, do so only after you have pulled over and stopped the car. If you are carrying passengers, ask them to help you stay safe by taking any calls for you or reading out directions.
It’s important to recognize the risks associated with texting and driving, and to take steps to avoid them. Put away your phone and other devices before you start your car, and focus on the task of driving. Remember, any activity that takes your attention away from the road can lead to dangerous situations, so be sure to stay alert and focused on the task of driving.
