Texting and Driving
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Facts and Statistics of Texting and Driving
Most of us own cell phones and are well aware of the communication benefits of texting. But have you ever considered the risks associated with texting and driving? No matter how exceptional your multitasking skills are, texting and driving is an unsafe and illegal practice.
Texting and driving are a deadly combination and have been the cause of many automobile accidents. Research has shown that texting and driving are even more dangerous than driving under the influence.
According to the National Safety Council, distracted driving kills nine people every day in the United States. 11 teenagers die every other day due to texting and driving. According to AT&T’s Teen Driver Survey, 97% of adolescents believe it risky, but 43% still partake in the practice. The National Safety Council estimates that using a cell phone while driving causes 6 million accidents annually.
In a country like the United Arab Emirates, Dubai has strict laws for texting and driving. Those are to curb distracted driving, such as banning texting while driving. Although texting and driving are illegal in many areas, not everyone abides by the laws.
Dangers of Texting While Driving
The issue of driving while texting has grown significantly in importance for public safety as both usages of cell phones and the number of automobiles on the road have increased dramatically over the previous ten years. The Risks and dangers of it are visible.
Decreased Intellectual Focus:
Drivers who do texting while driving tend to lose focus from the task of safe and attentive driving. It is dangerous because it involves both manual and visual distractions. Attempting to read or compose a text message while speeding down the highway requires the driver to take their concentration off the road and their hands off the wheel, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Increased Risk of Accident:
Texting while driving increases the risk of an accident drastically. Studies have shown that reaction times are way higher when a person is texting than when they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, making it especially dangerous to text and drive. It can cause the driver to miss crucial warning signs like traffic signals, increasing the risk of an accident.
Fatalities:
Texting and driving increase the likelihood of a deadly collision, putting drivers and passengers at risk. It can result in significant injuries, disabilities, or even death. It is unsafe and should avoid at all costs.
Legal and Financial Risks:
Texting and driving is illegal in many areas, and it can lead to fines or jail based on the seriousness of the accident. The driver may also face increased insurance premiums and legal fees in the event of an accident.
Horrible Deadly Accidents:
Texting while driving can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle due to the increased distraction. It may end up with a car crash hitting someone and causing the death of an innocent person.
Ways to Avoid Dangers of Road
- The only way to prevent texting and driving is for drivers to take responsibility and avoid using their phones while behind the wheel.
- The best way to prevent texting and driving is to be prepared before starting a journey and silence or turn off all notifications.
- Having a valuable conversation with family and friends who drive can also help promote safe driving habits and remind all drivers about the dangers of texting and driving.
- Keep the conversations and music at a reasonable level.
- Additionally, with the help of apps and other tech solutions, drivers can stay aware of when their attention is slipping away while driving.
- Drivers should also avoid any kind of distraction in the car, like eating or fiddling with the car radio, and instead focus on driving.
While it only takes a few seconds to glance at your phone while driving, that brief moment can have catastrophic consequences. Remember, no text message is more important than your safety. Stay focused and keep your eyes on the road.
Cellphone Laws to Remember
- You cannot send or receive text messages on mobile while driving in Dubai.
- Using any mobile or handheld device while driving in a school zone is illegal.
- School bus drivers may not use cell phones in any situation while driving if children are present.
- Cellphone laws can change from city to city.
Drive Safe and Stay Informed
- Never use your cell phone while driving.
- Pull off the road entirely and come to a complete stop before you talk or text.
- Familiarize yourself with local laws in Dubai.