As much as it’s fun to talk to your friends, texting while driving has become a notable issue. Especially with the younger generation. Florida, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, has unfortunately also witnessed the repercussions of this perilous habit. It’s important to understand the impact this action has on others on the road and how to avoid this behavior. Shedding light on this issue can help stop this behavior and keep accidents to a minimum.
The Rise of Texting While Driving
Texting while driving is considered distracted driving by the law. It’s considered a leading cause of most accidents over the years. The allure of staying connected always has led many drivers to engage in this risky behavior while behind the wheel. consequences can have major consequences to not only you but the other driver in the accident. This is why most law enforcement will pull you over if they believe you to be distracted by your phone behind the wheel.
Car Accident Statistics: The Harsh Reality
The statistics provided by the West Palm Beach car accident lawyers at Kogan & DiSalvo speak volumes about the impact of texting while driving on Florida’s roads. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, texting while on the road has caused loads of accidents. These accidents often result from a lapse in attention as drivers divert their focus from the road to their mobile devices. Beyond fatalities, texting while driving has contributed to a staggering number of injuries. People can be seriously injured no matter the type of accident. Young and inexperienced drivers are particularly susceptible to the allure of texting while driving. The DHSMV’s reports reveal that a substantial percentage of distracted driving accidents involve drivers under the age of 25. Texting while driving contributes to these accidents simply because you are not aware of your surroundings and could miss cars stopping in front of you.
Legal Measures to Combat Texting While Driving
Recognizing the need to address this growing concern, Florida has taken legislative measures to curb texting while driving: In 2019, Florida implemented a law that makes texting while driving a primary offense. This means law enforcement officers can pull over drivers solely for texting while driving, without needing another reason. These zones help the roads be safe for both drivers and pedestrians. has created areas that are hands-free, which means that their hands need to be always on the wheel. The penalties for distracted driving tend to vary. But there are times when you can fined and others when you are arrested.
Changing Behaviors: The Road Ahead
While the law is created to keep everyone safe, it can’t control everyone’s behavior. It requires other drivers to step up and learn to wait. The text doesn’t need to happen right at that moment. Drivers need to recognize when it’s safe to look at their phones. Some campaigns go around to talk about the damage of distracted driving. Some of these accidents result in another person’s death. Focus on the road and enjoy the drive without any distractions.
Bottomline
Everyone enjoys talking and texting with their friends. But there is a time and place to do so safely. Distracted driving is a big driver when it comes to car accidents in Florida. There is no point in responding to someone on social media while you’re driving. Make sure to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. That way you can get to your destination safely along with the other drivers on the road. Texting shouldn’t be the reason that you don’t come home.
