As all Tennessee residents know, a motor vehicle is a large, complex piece of machinery. For this reason, to keep everyone safe, the person controlling it must stay alert and focused on the task at hand at every moment and avoid all distractions while behind the wheel. In recent years, people have been hearing a great deal of discussion about the dangers, in particular, of texting while driving, and most states have banned it, so why are many people still doing it?
Indeed, across the country, whether in Tennessee or elsewhere, it seems most people are aware of the potential dangers of texting while driving. However, despite this awareness, many people continue to pull their phones out while driving. According to recent study results from the National Safety Council, cellphone use while driving causes 1.6 million crashes annually. From these crashes come approximately 400,000 injuries and 3,500 deaths nationwide per year.
While statistics show most people support a ban on texting and driving, for many people, their opinion does not translate to reality. Currently, 48 states ban texting for all drivers, but even with the threat of a fine, people still do it. Interestingly, science has revealed that, on hearing the text alert signal, the human brain is stimulated in the same area as with highly addictive drugs, leading the recipient to automatically react, even while driving. Teen drivers are much more likely than adult drivers to get into an accident while using a cellphone. However, while most teens admit to knowing the dangers of cellphone use while driving, many also admit to doing so anyway.
Tennessee residents can take steps of their own to help stop this dangerous practice. For example, adults can educate young drivers to understand that such habits are unacceptable, as well as set a good example by not looking at their phones themselves while driving. If a driver does find him or herself seriously injured in a crash caused by a driver who had been texting at the time, following an investigation, the evidence may point to negligence on the part of that driver. In that case, the injured party may have grounds for a personal injury claim. An attorney with experience in this area of the law can be a valuable resource for those pursuing this avenue.