We are all familiar with the risk of texting while driving. Virginia Tech Transportation researchers have discovered that most drivers who caused the accident were distracted seconds before the accident. The most common reasons drivers are and were distracted is the cell phone.

But is texting really the most common reasons behind a car accident caused by a distracted driver? Regardless of whether it is or not, it is still something that you shouldn’t do while driving and here is why.

Did you know that on average, 9 people die every day in the United States due to someone’s negligence while driving? The majority of these crashes involve teenagers.

Glancing for One Second

If you text someone before you sit behind the wheel or before you start the engine, the chances are that you will receive a text back while driving. Taking that one moment and focusing on the message may lead to a serious car accident and someone else’s (and even yours) death. Also, leaving the DATA ON while driving may cause your phone to notify you when you receive a message on social media, or if someone commented or liked one of your posts or pictures. The natural human reaction is to check the notification. Again, eyes off the road for even a second may lead to your death. Keep your eyes and focus on the road, at all time!

Did you know that over 1.5 million accidents in the United States each year involved a cell phone?

Once the accident happens, you should consult with one of our Salt Lake City DUI Attorney and determine what you should do next. The initial consultation is free of charge, so don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Deadly Teenagers

Teens are known for reckless driving. 6 out of 10 accidents involve a teenager. If you see a teenager behind the wheel, the chances are that he/she will be texting someone or speaking on their cell phone. With the development of technology, most teenagers (and adults) cannot imagine their everyday life without their cell phones. These small computers have become a crucial part of our lives.

On the other side, they are a major distraction. Many people bump into each other simply for using their cell phones while walking. Imagine what happens when two cars hit each other at high speed due to one driver’s negligence and cell phone usage at the moment of the crash.

Consider Putting Your Phone on "Silent" while Driving

If you cannot control your instincts, put your phone to silent mode while driving. Don’t let yourself check the messages, as you may be tempted into texting one back. Even getting pulled over for texting while driving will get you in trouble.

Watch out for other distracted drivers on the road, and if you find yourself involved in a car accident, speak with DUI Accident Attorneys in Salt Lake City and seek their help right after the accident. Act immediately, don’t waste any of your time.