Texting and Driving Editorial

In today’s society, texting and driving is a normal occurrence. However, is it something that should happen daily in many drivers’ lives?

We feel that drivers do not understand the dangers that come with texting and driving. Using one’s cellphone while driving is becoming too common with newer cars even having Wi-Fi.

To begin, the most obvious problem with texting and driving is that it may cause injury or even death. According to TextingandDrivingSafety.com, by sending a text message while driving, you are 23 times more likely to crash your car. The effects of a car accident can last a lifetime or even take your life. The consequences of a car crash can range from something minor like a broken bone all the way to a major injury such as being paralyzed. While 77 percent of young adults feel confident texting and driving, the statistics do not lie; 13 percent of drivers ages 18-20 involved in a car wreck admitted to texting or talking on the phone at the time of the accident. Why is it that in our society we believe sending a text is more important than protecting ourselves from permanent harm?

Additionally, texting and driving affects more than just the driver, it affects everyone else on the road. Studies show that a distracted driver has a slower reaction time than that of a drunk driver. Answering a text takes away your attention for about five seconds. Traveling at 55 mph, that’s enough time to travel the length of a football field. This is enough time to cause permanent damage to others on the road, or someone you are driving with.

Lastly, texting and driving is illegal in all but four states. Even if you live in a state where texting and driving is legal, if you cause damage to someone by texting and driving, you can be charged with negligence or reckless driving. In Kansas City, one teen was charged with manslaughter due to texting and driving. Laws are put in place for our own safety and should be taken seriously.

Therefore, texting and driving should be taken more seriously because it can cause injury to you or others, and it is illegal. So the next time you have the urge to look at your phone while on the road, think twice as it can not only change your life, but the lives of those around you as well.