Since their creation, cell phone use has continued to rise across the country as well as the world. More people are texting one another than ever before, and it’s an excellent way to stay in touch. However, there’s a downside to this boom in technology.
The dangers of texting and driving are nothing new, but typing on a phone while behind the wheel continues to be a rampant and disastrous problem. With social media sites like Twitter, the ways in which people can text and drive has also multiplied. Despite the dangers, why do so many choose to continue this life-threatening activity?
The Legal Disconnect
One of the reasons drivers continue to interact with their phones while driving is simply because so many apps are designed for just that. GPS systems and driver-side rideshare apps are part of the problem, but so are state-run traffic updates via Twitter.
Virginia and Pennsylvania are just two examples of states that provide traffic updates to their residents on Twitter, almost begging people to use their phones while on the road. While knowing what traffic lies ahead can certainly help with a commute, the ability to use these features while driving poses serious risks.
Despite the availability of systems drivers can use while behind the wheel, the same states also have laws that prohibit any form of texting and driving. This makes for an awkward legal disconnect. Drivers shouldn’t be using them, yet they are designed for drivers.
A Connected World
Another main reason is that people live their lives more connected to the internet and others than they have in the past. People use their phones 24/7 for a wide variety of reasons ranging from social media to work and just chatting. For many, it’s hard to turn that level of connectivity off.
Sure, everyone knows that a text or Tweet can wait until you arrive at your destination. However, it seems that all too many simple cannot wait to respond. In 2019, that lack of ability to be disconnected for a short period of time led to the deaths of 3,142 people according to the NHTSA.
Influencing
Connectivity takes on another form, as well. It’s not hard to find individuals recording videos of themselves while driving, and even more create Tweets or other social media posts while behind the wheel. This is equally as dangerous and life threatening.
Protecting Yourself
The first, and most important, thing you can do to protect yourself is simple leave your phone alone when you’re in the driver’s seat. Texts, calls, comments, and Tweets can all wait until the car is parked again. Resist the temptation to use your phone at stoplights, too.
Second, protecting yourself against other distracted drivers is difficult. What you can do, however, is be prepared for the aftermath. Knowing the number of a motor vehicle accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve when you’re the victim of a distracted or negligent driver.
Finally, spread the word. Make sure your friends and loved ones know how dangerous distracted driving is and never let someone driving you around take part in these activities. Awareness has helped cut down on the number of people who text or Tweet behind the wheel, and it can help your loved ones as well.
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