How Often Does Texting Cause Car Accidents?

The ban on handheld devices while driving was put in place as a response to a rise in distracted driving accidents. Today, thanks to smartphones and social media, distracted driving is even more prevalent than it was in the early 2000s and is causing quite an issue on the roads.

As a driver, you should have a firm understanding of the current laws related to texting and driving. Likewise, before you get in the car and pick up your cell, you should understand the impact it could have on your life and the lives of others.

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Statistics on Texting While Driving Car Accidents

According to the National Safety Council, texting while driving causes 1.6 million accidents across the country each year. Of these accidents, 390,000 resulted in serious injuries and more than 3,000 resulted in death. Other surprising statistics regarding texting while driving include:

  • Texting while driving is 6 times more likely to cause an accident than drinking and driving
  • Texting is more dangerous than talking on the phone while driving
  • Sending a text takes your eyes off the road for an average of five seconds

Although the number of deaths related to texting and driving has decreased over the past few years, it’s still a prevalent issue across the United States. Drivers of all ages need to understand that in addition to physical consequences, there are also consequences for texting and driving according to the law.

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african american police officer leaning back on car and looking away

Distracted Driving Laws

The state of New York is one of the toughest states in the U.S. for distracted driving laws. According to state law, texting while driving is considered a form of driver inattention. The definition of driver inattention, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is a driver engaged in a secondary task, drowsiness or a non-driving related glance away from the roadway.

In California, you cannot use a cell phone or similar electronic communication device while holding it in your hand. You can only use it in a hands-free manner. Any driver under the age of 18 is prohibited from using a cell phone for any reason.

There are a number of penalties a driver can face if they’re charged with distracted driving in New York. The most common penalties for distracted driving include:

  • Fines between $50-$450
  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Driver’s license revocation

The penalties for drivers who cause an accident because they were texting are more severe. In the worst-case scenario, drivers who cause accidents that result in death can be charged with reckless driving or manslaughter. Both charges are felonies.

Prevent Accidents Caused By Texting While Driving

Many organizations and individuals have taken the initiative to prevent accidents caused by texting while driving. Likewise, state law enforcement officials urge drivers to put away their phones when they’re behind the wheel to avoid being the cause of injury or death. Some of the most popular tips for preventing texting while driving accidents are:

  • Put your phone on silent while driving and turn off notifications
  • Place your phone in the backseat or away from the driver’s seat so you’re not tempted to use it
  • Install a hands-free Bluetooth device so you’re able to make a call without taking your eyes off the road
  • Remind all your friends of the risks associated with texting while driving

Texting related accidents are serious and the work that people do to prevent them is not wasted, since the number of texting while driving accidents is now decreasing each year.

Texting Driver
Texting Driver

Prevent Accidents Caused By Texting While Driving

Many organizations and individuals have taken the initiative to prevent accidents caused by texting while driving. Likewise, state law enforcement officials urge drivers to put away their phones when they’re behind the wheel to avoid being the cause of injury or death. Some of the most popular tips for preventing texting while driving accidents are:

  • Put your phone on silent while driving and turn off notifications
  • Place your phone in the backseat or away from the driver’s seat so you’re not tempted to use it
  • Install a hands-free Bluetooth device so you’re able to make a call without taking your eyes off the road
  • Remind all your friends of the risks associated with texting while driving

Texting related accidents are serious and the work that people do to prevent them is not wasted, since the number of texting while driving accidents is now decreasing each year.

What to Do If You’re Involved In a Texting While Driving Accident

If you or someone you know has been involved in a texting while driving accident, a car accident attorney can help you navigate the situation. With their expertise, they will be able to help you through the process of filing claims and assist you in seeking a settlement from your injuries and pain and suffering.

At The Barnes Firm, we have a team of attorneys who are ready to assist you with your distracted driving case. We offer case evaluations for free. Contact our office to speak with an attorney and get started.

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