According to recent research from the University of Utah, using a hand-held or hands-free mobile device slows a driver’s reactions as much as someone with a blood alcohol content of 0.08%, the legal limit in all U.S. states. What’s more, using mobile devices to call, text or email is a leading cause of distracted driving. Keep reading to further understand the dangers of texting and driving.

Text messaging is a useful way to communicate quickly, but safety should never be traded for convenience. Trying to write or read a text message while driving puts your full attention on your phone and not on the road, where it should be.

Distracted driving due to mobile devices isn’t just a problem with teenagers. Drivers of all ages are susceptible. Remember, just because a driver is more experienced does not mean that they can drive more safely while texting, calling or otherwise being distracted by a mobile device.

Every day, people are injured and killed due to a person texting while driving. Because of the increasing danger of distracted driving, many states now outlaw the use of cellphones in any capacity while driving—and your state may be one of them.

To avoid a ticket and a potentially dangerous accident, do not use your cellphone while driving. If you must absolutely make a phone call or text, pull off the road in a safe area and then do so.

Think Twice Before Texting

Would you think it was okay for a doctor to be texting, emailing or carrying on an unrelated phone conversation while performing an operation? This may sound silly, but a driver and a doctor both have the safety of others in their hands. Protect both yourself and others on the road by putting down your cellphone while driving.

For additional driving safety tips and auto insurance solutions, contact us today at (423) 541-1111.