Considering the risks of using your phone while driving, including accidents and delayed reaction times, and ways to stay safe, such as using apps that block notifications.
Ever feel like your phone’s practically glued to your hand, especially when you’re behind the wheel? I mean, we’re all guilty of sneaking a peek, whether it’s to check directions or reply to a quick text, right? But are we really thinking about the dangers?
We’re going to dive deeper into this topic. Stay tuned!
Lots of drivers think they’re totally able to multitask behind the wheel you know, thinking they can handle their phone and drive safely. Thing is using your phone while driving is seriously risky it’s often the cause of accidents and distractions that can pull your focus from the road and what’s happening around you. The National Safety Council even says that using a phone is like the biggest distraction for drivers today, causing around 1.6 million accidents each year in the US. Those are some scary numbers coming from the United States.
- Texting while driving causes roughly 330,000 injuries every year.
- In America, 1 out of every 4 accidents is caused by phone use while driving.
- Texting while driving is like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed! Yikes!
- Sadly, 11 teens die every day in the US because of texting while driving.
Of course, these stats are specific to the US, but the danger applies worldwide. It’s pretty clear that using your phone while driving is a global issue.
Driving Distracted: A Recipe for Disaster!
So, why is using your phone so dangerous when you’re driving? Well, it’s pretty simple: driving needs your full, undivided attention. You need to be focused on getting to your destination safely. You can’t be day dreaming.
Even though our brains are amazing, and can handle a lot at once there’s a limit. It’s not like you can use your phone and still be 100% focused on the road, or react as quickly as you should if something unexpected happens. Think about it, your brain can’t tell that the car ahead stopped fast enough if you’re also reading a text.
- Some people might have gotten away with using their phone while driving without an accident, but that doesn’t make it any less dangerous. It’s pure luck!
What Can We Do?
Lots of countries have started making laws to stop people from using their phones while driving to prevent accidents. Even so, lots of people still break the rules.
What are some things we can do to avoid using our phones while driving?
- You can put your phone on silent while driving, but you have to remember to do it!
- Increasing fines for drivers who use their phones.
- Using hands-free devices like Bluetooth to make calls or access navigation while driving. That way you’re at least not holding your phone.
- Being aware of how distracting your phone is.
- Avoid letting your kids use their phones while you’re driving, because you’re trying to keep them safe anyway.
- Use apps that block notifications while driving.
Ultimately, remember that your life is precious, and it shouldn’t be risked because of a text message or a quick phone call. As a driver, you’re responsible for your own safety and the safety of others on the road, so if you see someone using their phone while driving, ask them to stop. And if they don’t, seriously, get out of the car to protect yourself.
Will you commit to stopping phone use while driving?
Testimonials
“I used to think I could handle texting and driving, but after seeing a friend get into an accident, I realized how wrong I was. Now, I always put my phone on silent and keep it out of reach. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely worth it for the peace of mind.” – Sarah K.
FAQ
Myth: I’m a really good driver, so I can handle using my phone without any problems.
Fact: Um, no. No one is that good. It’s not about your driving skills; it’s about how much your attention is divided.
Question: What’s the biggest risk of using my phone while driving?
Answer: Besides, you know, possibly crashing? It’s the delayed reaction time. Even a split second can make a huge difference.
Myth: Hands-free devices make it totally safe to use my phone while driving.
Fact: While they’re better than holding your phone, they still take your focus away from the road.
So, after looking into all of this, I’m definitely rethinking my own phone habits behind the wheel. It’s just not worth the risk, is it?
