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Why is texting and driving so dangerous?

On Behalf of | May 1, 2023 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

When you get behind the wheel of a vehicle, many risks can threaten your ability to get to your destination safely. Distracted driving is one of these risks.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021 in the U.S., distracted driving took the lives of 3,522 people. Although there are many different types of distracted driving, texting and driving is one of the most dangerous.

Types of distraction

There are three main types of driver distraction: visual distraction, manual distraction and cognitive distraction. Visual distraction happens when you stop looking at the road; manual distraction happens when you remove your hands from the steering wheel; cognitive distraction happens when you stop thinking about driving.

Texting and driving combine all three types of distraction. When you text and drive, you stop focusing on driving, have to remove at least one hand from the steering wheel and look down at your phone.

How to avoid distraction while driving

Texting and driving is normal behavior for many drivers because cellphone use is a constant part of many people’s daily lives. To prevent this distraction while you drive, set your phone on silent mode so you cannot hear text message notifications while you drive. You may also want to put your cellphone in the glove compartment or back seat when you drive.

Although you may take steps to avoid texting and driving, other drivers are not always as diligent. If you sustained injuries in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, take steps to protect your legal rights and rights to fair and proper compensation.

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