A study confirms that texting while driving is one of the most dangerous cell phone tasks. Car and Driver Magazine conducted an experiment which showed that the reaction time of a driver attempting to brake is worse while sending and reading text messages than that of a driver impaired by alcohol. According to the article, one driver’s reaction time for braking decreased from .56 seconds to 1.24 seconds while texting at 70 miles per hour compared to when braking without distraction. At that speed, it took the driver an average of 70 additional feet to stop his vehicle while texting and driving. The same driver’s reaction time decreased by 0.04 seconds while attempting the same experiment while impaired, resulting in the driver traveling an average of only 4 additional feet to stop his vehicle.
Florida has yet to ban texting while driving. There have been pushes in the Florida legislature to takes steps against these dangerous driving activities. Florida has also started the “Stay Alive . . . Just Drive!” campaign which is aimed at preventing injury and death caused by automobile accidents through education and awareness of the dangers of distracted driving. (See https://sajd.org/)
If you or a loved one has been injured by a driver distracted while using a cell phone, it is important to contact an experienced attorney. An experienced car accident lawyer will protect your rights against insurance companies and negligent drivers that may not have your best interests in mind, while working hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
Mark A. Sessums, Esq., is Board Certified in civil trial law and handles accident and injury cases throughout Florida with the firm, SESSUMS LAW GROUP, P.A. The firm has office locations in Lakeland, Florida and Sebring, Florida.