Texting and driving increases chance of a car accident

For readers in Pennsylvania, it comes as no surprise to learn that recent data collected by researchers indicates that texting and driving increases the chance of an accident. Interestingly, this study found that texting and driving may place drivers at a higher risk for a car accident than drunk driving. In fact, it appears that a distracted driver is six times more likely to be involved in a crash than a drunk driver. 

Texting is extremely popular, but it is well-known that this behavior behind the wheel can have devastating results. Distracted drivers often swerve and speed up or brake erratically, similar to drunk drivers. Researchers warn that phones may distract the average driver more than if they were impaired by alcohol, as texting takes a driver’s eyes off the road for several seconds at a time.

Individuals who are using their phones while driving have slower reaction times, as do intoxicated drivers. Just one moment of lost concentration behind the wheel can have serious or even deadly consequences. Drivers who participate in any kind of negligent or reckless behavior, which includes texting, can be held accountable for their actions.

It has long been thought that drunk driving was one of the greatest threats to the safety of all motorists. While that is still true, Pennsylvania readers should note that texting while driving may be an even greater danger. Those who were injured in a car accident caused by texting and driving have the right to seek legal resolutions to their pain and suffering by filing civil claims against the liable drivers.

Source:  wbir.com, “Comparing drunk driving, texting behind the wheel”, Kelsey Pape, June 12, 2015