Texting While Driving Accidents Kill 400 People Each Year in The U.S.

In today’s digital age, where smartphones are practically extensions of ourselves, it’s crucial to strike a balance between connectivity and courtesy, especially when it comes to driving. July is recognized as National Cell Phone Courtesy Month, a timely reminder to take a closer look at our phone habits, statistics surrounding distracted driving, and to practice safter driving habits.

The Impact of Texting While Driving: A Growing Concern

Distracted driving, particularly due to cell phone usage, remains a significant concern globally. According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claims the lives of more than 3,000 people annually in the United States alone. Among the distractions, texting while driving has emerged as a particularly dangerous behavior, killing more than 400 people each year.

Texting While Driving: A Deadly Combination

Texting while driving significantly increases the risk of accidents. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that sending or reading a text takes a driver’s eyes off the road for about five seconds- a significant amount of time. This alarming statistic underscores the lethal potential of distracted driving, not just for the driver but for passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) collects and analyzes data related to distracted driving incidents in the United States. Here are some key statistics from their reports:

1. Fatalities and Injuries: Every year, distracted driving claims the lives of more than 3,000 people in the United States. This includes drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists who were killed in crashes where distraction was reported as a factor.
2. Cell Phone Usage: According to the NHTSA’s National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS), at any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving.
3. Age Groups Affected: Drivers under the age of 20 have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. This age group has the highest percentage of drivers who were distracted at the time of the crash.
4. Texting and Driving: Texting is particularly concerning due to the level of distraction it causes. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds, which at 55 mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
5. Impact on Reaction Time: Distracted driving significantly impacts a driver’s ability to react to potential hazards on the road. This delay in reaction time can mean the difference between a near miss and a catastrophic collision.
6. Public Perception: Despite awareness campaigns and laws, many drivers still admit to using their phones while driving. Surveys indicate that a significant percentage of drivers report texting or emailing regularly while behind the wheel, despite knowing the risks involved.
7. State Laws and Enforcement: Many states have implemented laws banning texting while driving and restricting the use of handheld devices. Enforcement of these laws varies, but studies show that laws coupled with public awareness campaigns can reduce the incidence of distracted driving.

Pennsylvania Texting While Driving Laws

In Pennsylvania, laws regarding texting and driving are aimed at reducing distractions and improving road safety. Here are the key points regarding texting and driving laws in Pennsylvania:

• The law prohibits as a primary offense, any driver from using an Interactive Wireless Communication Device to send, read or write a text-based communication while his or her vehicle is in motion.
• The law defines an (IWCD) as a wireless phone, personal digital assistant, smartphone, portable or mobile computer or similar devices that can be used for texting, instant messaging, emailing or browsing the Internet.
• The law defines a text-based communication as a text message, instant message, email or other written communication composed or received on an (IWCD).

The penalty is a summary offense with a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees. The texting ban does NOT include the use of a GPS device, a system or device that is physically or electronically integrated into the vehicle.

It’s important for drivers in Pennsylvania to be aware of these laws and to prioritize safety by avoiding distractions while driving. Adhering to these laws not only helps protect the driver but also everyone else on the road.

The Importance of National Cell Phone Courtesy Month

National Cell Phone Courtesy Month aims to promote awareness about the responsible use of cell phones, especially in public spaces and behind the wheel. It encourages individuals to adopt courteous behaviors such as:

1. Pull Over for Important Calls: If a call or text is urgent, pulling over in a safe location to respond can prevent potential accidents.
2. Use Hands-Free Devices: When driving, utilize hands-free options like Bluetooth or voice commands to minimize distractions.
3. Designate a Texter: If driving with others, designate a passenger as the “designated texter” to manage communications while the driver focuses on the road.
4. Set a Good Example: Parents and guardians play a crucial role in shaping behaviors. Setting a good example by practicing safe phone etiquette can positively influence younger drivers.

How You Can Participate

During National Cell Phone Courtesy Month, consider taking the following steps to contribute to safer roadways:

• Spread Awareness: Share statistics and safety tips with friends, family, and on social media to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.
• Take the Pledge: Commit to being a responsible driver by taking the pledge to avoid texting and using phones while driving.
• Educate Others: Encourage others to participate in the campaign by discussing the importance of phone courtesy and safe driving habits.

National Cell Phone Courtesy Month serves as an important reminder of the impact our phone habits can have on our safety and the safety of others. By practicing phone courtesy and minimizing distractions while driving, we can all contribute to creating safer roadways and communities. Let’s make every month a time to prioritize safety and respect on the road.

Texting While Driving Accident Attorneys in York, Pa.

Unfortunately, distracted driving accidents happen.  And despite efforts to minimize this careless act, people continue to use their cell phones behind the wheel.

If you’ve been injured in a texting while driving accident, the at fault driver’s insurance company will do everything it can to minimize its damages. That means they will try to deny or diminish the amount of compensation you are entitled to.

Often, they reach out to the injured immediately following an accident in hopes the victim says something that will jeopardize their case. Do not speak to the insurance company! Our attorneys at Dale E. Anstine will do the talking to ensure you have the best chance at maximized compensation.

The insurance company may also try to offer you a quick settlement hoping you’ll sign off on your injuries. Do not sign a thing! Have our attorneys take a look at everything before you take action.

Our law firm has been practicing personal injury law for decades. Let us focus on your distracted driving case while you recover from your injuries. We do not charge a fee for representation unless we win your case for you, so reach out today for help.