Topic > Texting and Driving: A Recipe for Death - 728

We live in a society that thrives on the latest technological advances. In its usefulness, technology has helped open many doors in advancing the way society deals with business and communications. However, most do not recognize the dangers hidden behind these useful gadgets. In particular, the cell phone in all its usefulness can be very dangerous in certain situations. The use of cell phones to text while driving is becoming a rapidly growing killer. To start keeping drivers and passengers safe on the road, changes to our laws and information programs about the dangers of texting while driving are needed. People can multitask, but trying to do too many tasks at once can cause distractions. When a person uses a cell phone while driving, they tend to ignore traffic signs and not keep an eye on the road, both of which are perfect for disaster. Studies conducted by the Virginia Tech Driving Institute revealed that those who text while driving are 23 times more likely to have an accident. (Naik). A comparative study on the statistics of texting while driving and drunk driving, published in a major US automotive magazine, revealed that texting while driving is even more dangerous than drunk driving. inebriation. According to statistics compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) texting while driving, 5,870 people died in car crashes in 2008 alone. (Naik). The same statistics revealed that 515,000 people were injured in various car accidents in the United States. In 2008, 28 percent were caused by drivers aged 18 to 29 who admitted to texting while driving. Yet, even though 37% of teens rated texting while driving as... middle of paper.... ..ng my life or the lives of others on the road. I pledge to never text while driving and will take action to educate others about the dangers of texting while driving. No text is worth the risk. It can wait." (AT&T) This website also allows people to share why they made the decision to get involved and then post it on Twitter or Facebook for their friends to see. One of the main reasons given for establishing pledge is the death of a loved one. This call to action is educating many and creating awareness about the dangers that exist. Mobile phones have made it easier to stay in touch with friends, family and business to where we choose to use our cell phones. Many people resort to cell phone use while driving, a dangerous practice that is responsible for a significant number of accidents in the United States.