Texting and Driving: Is it Worth the Risk?

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of severe injury in car accidents. Nowadays, cell phones are a considerable risk factor in distracted driving. According to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed the lives of approximately 3,166 people in 2017. In 2015, almost 400 thousand people were seriously injured in car accidents that involved distracted drivers. Texting while driving creates a significant hazard on the road. Not just for the distracted driver but also for passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers.

Younger drivers face higher risks

The most at risk for distracted driving include teens and young adults. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “drivers under the age of 20 have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes.” These accidents are especially devastating. Not only because they affect a much younger age group but because of their preventable nature.

How far can you go in five seconds?

If a driver travels 55 miles per hour and takes their eyes off the road for even 5 seconds to send a text, that driver effectively moves through the length of an entire football field with their eyes closed. By focusing their full attention on the road and waiting until later to send a text, drivers can easily avoid many of the risks involved in distracted driving.

Texting and driving laws

Texting while driving has become such an issue that public officials have even introduced laws against the act. In New York, drivers cannot use a hand-held mobile telephone or portable electronic device while they travel. If drivers are caught using a hand-held mobile device, they could be issued a ticket, subject to a fine, and given a surcharge. Researchers and public officials agree that texting and driving aren’t worth the risk.

Contact a New York Car Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious car accident because of a distracted driver, contact an experienced accident attorney for help. At Hach & Rose, LLP, our New York car accident lawyers know how to handle these cases and get injured individuals the compensation they deserve. We are here to support you, so call us at 212-779-0057 to schedule a FREE consultation today.