The Deadly Truth About Texting and Driving in Dallas

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 3,000 deadly car accidents in the country are caused by distracted driving annually. Among the numerous forms of distracted driving, texting while driving is the most prevalent and hazardous. The Law Office of Brian Brunson is currently emphasizing the risks associated with texting behind the wheel.

What The Statistics Show Us

In 2018, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) discovered that 14% of fatal crashes were caused by distracted driving, specifically involving the use of cell phones. These statistics are concerning, but not unexpected. It’s important to note that when we use our cell phones while driving, our attention is diverted from the road ahead. For example, sending a text message typically takes around 5 seconds. If a driver is traveling at 55 miles per hour, they would have covered the distance of a football field without keeping their eyes on the road. This highlights the potential dangers and risks associated with using handheld cell phones while driving.

When you look away from the road to text, you’re not only distracting yourself but also removing one hand from the steering wheel. This means that even if you’re trying to keep an eye on the road and your phone, your ability to react quickly will be significantly decreased. If another driver suddenly changes lanes, it will be difficult for you to maneuver out of the way promptly since you’re only driving with one hand.

Additionally, sending text messages can occupy your mind, diverting your attention away from the task of driving. While some individuals may not view a distracted mind as a type of driver distraction, it can hinder your ability to concentrate on the road, slow down your reaction time, and raise the likelihood of being involved in a collision.

Forms of Distraction

Texting and driving poses various risks and falls under all three categories of distracted driving as defined by the CDC. Consequently, engaging in this activity can lead to severe consequences.

Visual distractions are things that make you look away from the road.
Manual distractions are things that make you take your hands off the wheel.
Cognitive distractions are things that make you stop paying attention to driving.

One positive thing to note is that drivers have the ability to steer clear of texting while behind the wheel by preparing in advance and opting for safe driving practices instead of dangerous ones.

Reducing Your Chances of An Accident

Distracted driving has been a big issue in the United States for a long time. However, if every driver decides not to drive while distracted, it can make a huge difference in the safety of our roads. So, let’s all do our part. Here are a few tips to avoid texting while driving.

Make sure to mute your phone before hitting the road.
Consider placing your phone in a spot that’s not within easy reach, like in a bag in the back or in the glove compartment.
Activate driving mode on your phone or use a safe driving app that blocks notifications while you’re on the road.
If you absolutely have to send a text, like in urgent situations, make sure to pull over safely before doing so.
Remember, safety first when it comes to using your phone while driving.

If you’ve been in an accident because someone was texting and driving, contact us today for a free consultation.

Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.

We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.