The Alarming Dangers of Texting and Driving
Smartphones have only been part of everyday life for a little over a decade, yet they now influence nearly everything we do. While mobile technology has brought convenience and connection, it has also introduced serious dangers—especially on the road.
Texting and driving remains one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of car accidents in the United States. Despite widespread awareness, drivers continue to put themselves and others at risk by using their phones behind the wheel. Understanding how dangerous this behavior truly is can help save lives.
Why Texting and Driving Is So Dangerous
Texting while driving is especially hazardous because it combines three major distractions at once:
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Manual distraction – taking your hands off the wheel
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Visual distraction – taking your eyes off the road
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Cognitive distraction – taking your mind off driving
Safety experts consistently rank texting as one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving. Research shows that:
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Reading or sending a text at highway speeds means traveling the length of a football field without watching the road
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The brain cannot safely multitask between driving and texting
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Drivers who text show impairment levels similar to drunk drivers
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Using a phone while driving significantly increases crash risk
Even a brief glance at a phone can have devastating consequences.
A Widespread and Deadly Problem
Despite the known dangers, texting and driving continues to occur at alarming rates across the country.
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A large majority of drivers admit to using their phones while driving
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Thousands of people are killed each year in distracted driving crashes
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Hundreds of thousands more suffer serious injuries
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Many fatal crashes involving distraction are believed to be underreported
Perhaps most concerning, a significant number of drivers still believe they can safely text while driving—despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
A Serious Threat to Teen Drivers
Texting and driving is particularly dangerous for teen and young drivers, who already face higher crash risks due to inexperience.
Studies show that:
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A large percentage of teenage drivers admit to texting behind the wheel
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Distraction is a leading factor in fatal crashes involving drivers ages 15–20
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Teens who text while driving are more likely to speed and run red lights
Education, enforcement, and accountability are critical to protecting young drivers and everyone who shares the road with them.
Laws and Penalties Continue to Expand
In response to rising distracted driving crashes, lawmakers across the country have taken action.
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Texting while driving is illegal in nearly every U.S. state
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Many states allow police to stop drivers solely for texting violations
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Repeat offenders may face escalating fines, license points, or jail time
Even hands-free or voice-to-text technology can distract drivers, and studies suggest it is not risk-free. The safest option remains keeping your phone out of reach while driving.
Holding Texting Drivers Accountable After an Accident
When a driver chooses to text behind the wheel and causes a crash, they can—and should—be held legally responsible for the harm they cause.
Personal injury law exists to protect victims and hold negligent drivers accountable. Texting and driving accidents often result in severe injuries, long-term disabilities, or the tragic loss of life. Victims and families may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical bills and future treatment
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Lost income and reduced earning ability
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Loss of enjoyment of life
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Wrongful death damages, including loss of companionship
In particularly reckless cases, courts may also award punitive damages to punish dangerous behavior and deter others.
While financial compensation cannot undo the trauma of a crash, it can provide critical support and stability during recovery.
What to Do After a Texting and Driving Accident
If you are injured by a distracted driver, taking the right steps early can protect your health and your legal rights.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even injuries that seem minor can worsen over time. Prompt medical care protects your health and creates important documentation of your injuries.
Speak With an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Texting is often difficult to prove after a crash. Phone records and digital evidence can be lost or deleted quickly. An attorney can act fast to preserve evidence and build a strong case.
Be Cautious of Insurance Company Offers
Insurance companies may attempt to settle claims quickly and for less than their true value. Accepting an early offer may mean giving up your right to full compensation.
Get Help From a Car Accident Lawyer Today
Texting and driving continues to cause preventable injuries and loss on our roads. If you were hurt by a distracted driver, you deserve answers, accountability, and fair compensation.
An experienced car accident attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact a car accident lawyer today for a (855-Call-Paul)
consultation and learn how legal action can help you recover and help make our roads safer.
