The Frightening Facts of Texas Distracted Driving

Can you send a text message in three seconds or less? What about dialing a telephone number on your cell phone? These are common activities performed by drivers. Yet, the startling truth is that a three-second distraction is all it takes to significantly increase your odds of a car accident. That is one fact you need to remember when you are behind the wheel.

Distracted driving has received a lot of press over the last couple of years and for good reason. As technology has progressed and people are “plugged in” wherever they go, the temptation to multitask behind the wheel has only heightened. In 2009 alone, 20 percent of the injury collisions involved some form of distracted driving.

Why Distracted Driving is so Deadly

When you are behind the wheel, your only focus should be on the driving task at hand. Your mind needs to be clear and able to respond to dangers. Your hands need to be on the wheel, ready to take action. Your eyes need to constantly be scanning the road for hazards. A distraction can impair your visual, manual and cognitive functions, especially if you are texting and driving.

Scary Stats About Driver Distractions

The federal government has created a website that is devoted solely to the dangers of distracted driving. The website, Distraction.gov, has a compilation of disturbing facts and trends, including the following:

448,000 people were hurt in distracted driving accidents in 2009.
5,474 people were killed in distracted driving accidents in 2009.
People using handheld cell phones while driving are four times as likely to get into an injury crash.
Using a cell phone while driving isn’t that different than driving drunk. A driver using a cell phone has the same delay in reactions as someone who has a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent.
Drivers under the age of 20 have the highest rate of distracted driving.

Texas Distracted Driving Accidents

A distracted driver, who causes an accident, may be held liable for his or her actions. If you or a family member has been hurt in a distracted driving accident in Dallas or any of the surrounding areas, contact the offices of Van Wey Law at (214) 329-1350 or toll free (800) 489-5082. An experienced Dallas car accident attorney from our firm will be able to answer your questions and explain your legal rights.

Don't hesitate to contact Kay Van Wey at (800)489-5082 for a free, no obligation consultation.

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