U driving? No texting. When you’re behind the wheel, eyeing a text from your friend or sending a quick reply can seem harmless. But taking your eyes off the road—even for an instant—can be dangerous. Need more convincing to keep your phone down and your hands on the wheel? Check out the top 8 dangers of texting and driving:
1. You risk crashing.
The biggest risk of texting and driving is getting into an accident. Simple, safe solutions? Store your phone somewhere you won’t be tempted to grab it. Turn the volume off so you aren’t distracted by incoming messages. If you need to respond to a message or take a call, pull over when it’s safe and reply while the car is parked.
2. Your reaction time worsens.
Texting and driving impairs your reaction time, making you slower to respond to what’s happening around you. Did you know? Reading or sending a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. At a speed of 55 miles per hour, that’s the equivalent of driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
3. You put others at risk.
Fellow drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists are all at your mercy when you’re behind the wheel. A single misstep from you could be fatal for them. It’s your responsibility to consider their safety.
4. You miss signs and turns.
The longer you look away from the road, the more likely you are to miss signs and turns. Don’t add extra time to your drive.
5. You break the law.
Texting and driving is a direct violation of state and national traffic laws. Keep your hands on the wheel to avoid getting pulled over, ticketed, or fined.
6. You face costly repairs.
Vehicle damage is expensive to fix—and it can be a lengthy process. At the very least, avoid the financial and time burden by being a no-text driver.
7. Your insurance may increase.
If texting leads to a minor car accident, property damage, or collisions with another vehicle, your insurance premiums will go up. Don’t pay the price for this risk.
8. You let your friends and family down.
No message is worth your life or someone else’s. Your family and friends will understand why you didn’t respond. In fact, they’ll likely take pride in you for being a safe and considerate driver.
Now that you know the numerous risks of texting and driving, pledge to be a responsible driver and keep your phone down while you’re on the road—whether at a stoplight, in a drive-thru line, or behind the wheel in any capacity. For even more protection and peace of mind on your drive, get auto insurance that travels with you and covers every twist and turn. Talk to a local, independent agent about our plans today.
