Whenever people get behind the wheel, they will probably share the road with someone casually flipping through their social feeds and texting while driving. While some people may think this is harmless, the fact is that driving while distracted by a phone can put everyone at risk.
Texting while driving is dangerous
Texting takes your eyes off the road for an average of three to five seconds. Even if you are talking on a phone (hands-free even), it can distract your mind from the critical task of driving. Studies show that distracted drivers are more likely to be in an accident, with approximately 3,000 people losing their lives every year due to car accidents caused by distracted drivers.
Using a phone while driving affects drivers and the people around them. Pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers are all at risk when drivers ignore the road and their surroundings.
Tips on how to stay safe on the road
Whether you are on the highway or driving through the suburbs, it pays to be careful and practice defensive driving. Other tips include:
Put your phone away: Silence it or put it in a glove box before you start driving. Out of sight, out of mind.
Use hands-free calling options only if necessary: If you need to make a call, use your phone or vehicle’s hands-free capabilities.
Pull over if you need to use your phone: If you do need to hold your phone to do something, find a safe space to pull over.
If you are not the driver and merely a passenger, be a responsible companion and try to prevent them from texting and driving. If you get into an accident caused by a distracted driver, you can hold them accountable for their unsafe and poor decisions.
Distracted drivers pose a significant threat to the safety of all road users. A collective commitment to responsible driving practices may reduce accidents, crash expenses, injuries and fatalities.
