Slow down! Before you get behind the wheel, take a close look at texting and driving statistics in association with accidents. Nearly everyone owns a smartphone, so as a result everyone is texting. The instantaneous communication with your peers and co-workers, make the device you once talked into an addictive vice which can put your life at risk behind the wheel of a car. Before we get into the stunning statistics about texting an driving here’s some basic information.
Over 600,000 drivers use their phones while driving on a daily basis. They use them for the following:
- Texting
- Phone Calls
- Social Media
According to the National Safety Council cell phone use while driving leads to:
- 1.6 million car accidents per year
- Over 300,000 injuries
- 1 out of 4 accidents are caused by texting and driving
Texting while driving increases your chances of getting into an accident 6 times more as driving while intoxicated.
Teen Drivers
Teenagers are the most likely demographic to get into an accident. Their inexperience on the road combined with a distraction from a cell phone only increases the chances. Here are some facts about teens driving on the road:
- Teens who text and drive increase their chance of getting into an accident by 400%.
- According to AAA research over 20% of teen drivers involved in fatal accidents are related to cell phone use while driving.
- If caught texting while driving a $200 fine is issued in NYS.
- Five points are added to your license.
Prevention
All these statistics could make a driver worrisome to get behind the wheel, so here are some useful tips to avoid becoming part of the statistic:
- Put your phone away while driving.
- #ItCanWait. No text or call or worth risking your life over.
- If talking is necessary, use Bluetooth.
- If points accumulate, take the defensive driver course.
Contact Us
Give our office a call @ 631-224-1000 for any help with your current auto coverage. Our friendly office staff will be happy to provide a FREE quote, offer the defensive driver course and address any insurance questions you may have. We encourage our readers to post in the comments section. It allows us to improve the quality of our blog, connect with our audience and address your insurance concerns. Be sure to follow us on social media as well, by clicking the icons below!
