Texting while driving a major roadway danger

Texting while driving is recognized as one of the most dangerous behaviors a driver can engage in behind the wheel by a great majority of survey respondents in South Carolina and across the country. Distracted roadway behavior can be associated with social developments and trends like the use of the smartphone or cannabis legalization. In particular, distracted driving due to texting or social media activity has led to a number of severe car crashes. A study conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America found that the vast majority of Americans view texting while driving as dangerous on the road.

The respondents recognized a range of activities as having the potential to lead to devastating car crashes. For example, 99 percent of survey recipients said that social media use while driving is a danger to others on the road. Ninety-eight percent said that texting while driving poses a similar threat. Of the respondents, 91 percent noted that driving under the influence of marijuana would be dangerous, and 87 percent said that it would also cause a threat to other drivers and passengers on the roadways.

Texting while driving has been the subject of some large awareness campaigns; the researchers also raised concerns about higher numbers of people driving under the influence of marijuana as cannabis use is decriminalized or legalized in a number of U.S. states. They urged more research into the phenomenon as there is no known threshold for marijuana intoxication as there is for drunk driving. Cannabis can slow reaction times, which can be hazardous in an emergency situation.

Car accidents caused by texting while driving and other distracted behaviors can lead to severe personal injuries or even death. People injured due to others’ dangerous driving may be able to consult with a personal injury lawyer to learn more about their options. This might include seeking compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses and other damages caused by a car crash.