Texting and driving: real risks

Taking a few seconds to text “I’ll be there in 15 minutes” while driving can have serious consequences. Read on to avoid giving in to the temptation.

Persistent distraction

Distractions while driving are among the leading causes of accidents resulting in personal injury. Texting while driving is one of the biggest.

Unfortunately, this bad habit is still prevalent. Even though strict laws were introduced several years ago, many drivers admit to sending a text message from time to time.

Temporary blindness

Taking your eyes off the road, even for a moment, increases the risk of hitting another vehicle, cyclist or pedestrian tenfold. Remember that at a speed of 50 km/h, your car travels 14 metres per second. Taking five seconds to send a text is like driving with your eyes closed for 70 metres.

Legal consequences

Texting while driving isn’t only dangerous, it’s illegal. You could receive a fine and five demerit points. You can still be fined even if you do it while you’re stopped at a red light or in a traffic jam. If you get caught a second time, your licence will be suspended.

In short, people who text and drive are more likely to be involved in a fatal accident. Therefore, you must take steps to avoid becoming a statistic. Set your phone to “do not disturb” or “airplane” mode, or keep your device out of reach in the trunk or glove compartment. If you use your phone to navigate, set the app to block all notifications while you’re on the move.

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