Texting and Driving Can Be Fatal

Would you drive the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed on a public highway? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), that is similar to what occurs when a motorist traveling at 55 miles per hour looks at their phone for just five seconds to send or view a text message. Thus, as you may expect, the consequences of texting and driving can be potentially fatal. 

Texting and Driving Fatalities

Over 29,000 people lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents that involved distracted driving from 2012 to 2020, according to the NHTSA. In fact, 3,142 lives were lost due to distracted driving in 2020 alone. Texting and driving is the most common form of distracted driving in New York State, according to the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.  

Reducing Instances of Texting and Driving

Deciding not to text and drive is a very simple precaution that can help prevent fatalities caused by distracted driving. For some, however, that is easier said than done. To help, the NHTSA offers some tips for drivers:  

• If you must send or view a text, carefully pull over and park your vehicle at a safe location before doing so. 
• If there is a passenger in the vehicle, designate them as the “designated texter” and allow them access to the phone. 
• Do not scroll through apps, including social media platforms, while driving.  
• Put your phone in the trunk, glove box, back seat, or some other area that is out of reach until arrival at the destination. 

It is important to be comfortable talking about the dangers of texting and driving because this activity can result in serious injury or even death.    

Injured by Someone Who Was Texting and Driving? Call William Mattar.

If you were injured due to another driver’s decision to text and drive, you may be wondering what steps you should take to receive compensation for pain and suffering arising from your injuries. The experienced car accident attorneys at William Mattar, P.C. can review your case and help determine the best options for obtaining maximum compensation.  Contact us 24/7 by reaching out online or by calling (844) 444-4444.