Driving is already a dangerous task that you engage in every day. The CDC reports show that around 1.35 million deaths from car accidents occur around the world every single year. With the addition of cellphones, many drivers are tempted into a further distraction that can result in serious consequences.
1. The Different Types of Distractions
Millions die annually as a result of car accidents, but many of these deaths and injuries are preventable if drivers maintain continuous attention on the road. Distracted driving is something that plays a large role in the number of accidents every year. There are generally three different types of distractions when driving. One is manual. These include taking your hands off of the steering wheel to assist with something else, like changing the radio station or reaching into your glove box to grab something. Another type is visual distractions. These distractions take your vision away from the road and on to something else, like texting. Last but not least, cognitive distractions are those that keep your mind at bay when driving. One example is feeling extremely tired because you’re not as alert. Overall, all of these different distractions take your mind off what you should be focused on—the road.
2. Deadly Consequences
Distracted driving causes some irreversible damages and consequences. No matter the distraction, you’re putting yourself, your passengers, and other drivers at risk by partaking in distracted driving. In 2018, there were 2,841 deaths due to distracted driving. By maintaining attention and putting your phone down, you can help to cut down this risk for yourself and your loved ones and save others’ lives. In turn, you’re saving yourself and others from injuries, suffering, car repairs, and other various consequences.
3. Hands-Free Options
To help solve part of the distracted driving problem associated with cell phones, many cars now have Bluetooth-enabled stereos and hands-free buttons that control the phone via the steering wheel. These accommodations allow the driver to remain visually focused on the road. However, even though you’re not physically handling your phone, you may be distracted by a phone call or changing the song. As you engage in any hands-free activity within your vehicle, it’s worthwhile to always make the call brief and ensure that you’re staying alert throughout your drive. If you have a passenger in the car, have them be your designated texter, music player, and assistant. This way, you can ensure your safety and minimize unnecessary injuries. There’s no reason to text and drive when you have hands-free options available.
4. Insurance Rates
Even with all of this information on the deaths and injuries that come from texting and driving and other distractions, there are also other great reasons to keep the cell phone away. One of these reasons is to keep your car insurance rate from sky-rocketing in the event of an accident. In Queensland, your compulsory third-party insurance and comprehensive insurance is important in the case of car accidents from distracted driving. As you’re searching for car insurance QLD, use this tool to get insurance quotes for the best deal. This third-party comprehensive insurance is also referred to as ‘green slip’ insurance. It covers a wide range of coverage options. These coverage options including accidents, damages to another vehicle, and injuries to passengers. It’s one of the best ideas for QLD drivers to remain protected with their auto insurance company. When choosing an auto insurance company for this third-party insurance, many factors can play a role in the insurance quotes you’ll receive. Be sure to compare your third-party car insurance with your current policy to ensure you’re receiving a highly-rated, great value car insurance at the best price.
5. Not Worth It
When it comes down to it, texting and driving can always wait. If you weigh out the risks, it’s not worth sending a text that can distract you from the road and potentially cause life-threatening injuries or death to yourself and others. By staying aware of these dangers and utilizing hands-free devices you can cut down your likelihood of these accidents. Nevertheless, if you do cause an accident by driving when distracted and you’re in an accident, you need to maintain your insurance policy for peace of mind and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are 5 facts about texting and driving?
1. Texting while driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents.
2. Texting takes your attention away from the road, increasing the risk of crashes.
3. Texting while driving is illegal in many states and countries due to its dangers.
4. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds, equivalent to driving blindfolded for the length of a football field at 55 mph.
5. Texting and driving not only endangers your life but also the lives of passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. - Why is texting and driving not worth your life?
Texting and driving pose serious risks to your safety and the safety of others on the road. A moment of distraction can lead to life-altering consequences, including severe injuries or fatalities. No text message is worth risking your life or the lives of others. - Why should one not text and drive?
Texting and driving significantly increases the likelihood of accidents due to distraction. It diverts attention away from the road, impairs reaction time, and puts everyone on the road at risk. Avoiding texting while driving is essential for promoting road safety and preventing accidents. - Why shouldn’t people text while driving?
People should refrain from texting while driving because it poses a significant safety risk. Texting diverts attention from the road, increases reaction time, and can lead to devastating accidents. Prioritizing safety and avoiding distractions while driving is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of all road users. - What are the legal consequences of texting and driving?
The legal consequences of texting and driving vary depending on the jurisdiction. In many places, it is considered a traffic violation and can result in fines, license suspension, or even imprisonment, especially if it leads to an accident causing injury or death. Additionally, texting while driving may result in increased insurance premiums and civil liability for damages.
