Cellphones are an extremely dangerous distraction for the driver of a moving vehicle because they reduce or stunt the reaction times crucial for negotiating traffic. Even more dangerous than phoning while driving is texting (or browsing) on a mobile phone while behind the wheel.
The main causes of accidents while using a mobile phone include loss of the driver’s ability to recognise potential dangers, maintain their speed and direction, or keeping safe following distances.
A good driver should employ constant visual searches in any road situation and the use of a mobile phone seriously diminishes this ability – some studies allege that the risk of a collision is up to four times higher than normal.
Here are a few tips for those of us who have to communicate while on the move:
- Stop the vehicle in a safe spot if you need to phone or text.
- If possible, ask a passenger to answer calls or messages on your behalf.
- WAIT until you get to your destination!
1.6 million
crashes a year in the U.S. caused by using a mobile phone
Texting while driving is
6 times
more dangerous than drunk driving
85 metres
distance traveled at 60km/h when texting for five seconds…