TEXTING WHILE DRIVING COMPARED TO DRIVING DRUNK

Even though texting while driving is an offence in most states, a huge majority of drivers still do it, putting other road users at serious risk as well as pedestrians. Strangely enough, and knowing the risks involved, many drivers are unable to resist the ring of a cell phone even when in heavy traffic or driving at full speed. The staff of Car and Driver magazine conducted a study and documented just how dangerous it is to use a cell phone when in control of a vehicle (or trying to remain in control).

Texting Compared to Being Drunk

The magazine investigators fixed a red light on a car to indicate to the drivers when to apply the brake. Times taken were recorded between the time the light went on and when the driver hit the brake, under four conditions – when the driver was sober, when reading an email, when sending a text message, and when legally drunk at .08.

The results were:

Sober 0.54 seconds

Legally drunk – add 4 feet

Reading an email – add 36 feet

Sending a text message – add 70 feet

At a Crossroads

The American public agrees that drinking and driving is a dangerous offense. But when it comes to talking on a cell phone or texting while driving, the majority is undecided.

A Powerful & Knowledgeable Team Member

Motor vehicle accidents account for the highest number of offenses under the injury law. If you are involved in a car crash or other kind of motor vehicle accident where the other driver was texting or talking on a cell phone, then get in touch with a motor vehicle accident attorney. You could well be entitled to file a claim for damages through an injury lawsuit. At Taylor King Law, we promote a “Don’t Text and Drive” stance; and guarantee to be on your side and by your side if you’ve been injured in an accident.