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The Dangers of Texting and Driving

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that distracted driving lead to 3,450 auto accident-related deaths in 2016 alone. An additional 391,000 people suffered injuries in 2015 due to distracted drivers.

In response to this growing epidemic, Oklahoma enacted a new law on Nov. 1, 2015, making it illegal to send or read text messages while behind the wheel. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to observe that law, and countless motorists still use their cell phones while their vehicles are in motion.

If you or someone you love was hurt in an auto accident that was caused by a distracted driver, contact Parrish DeVaughn today for a free consultation. Our Oklahoma City car accident attorneys hold distracted drivers responsible when their negligence harms innocent victims like you.

Texting While Driving Combines 3 Dangerous Forms of Distraction

Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it involves all three forms of distraction:

  • Visual—Sending or receiving text messages requires taking your eyes off the road. If you’re going 55 mph, your vehicle will travel the length of a football field in the time to takes to read or send a single text.
  • Manual—Texting while driving requires the use of your hands and fingers—and that means less control of your vehicle.
  • Cognitive—When you’re thinking about composing a text, you aren’t giving the road your full focus and attention.

While you can’t control the actions of other drivers, you can reduce your own risks by never texting while driving. If you need to read or send a text message, pull over to a safe location first.

We’re Here for You After an Auto Accident

Distracted driving is rapidly becoming one of the most common causes of crashes in Oklahoma and throughout the U.S., but it isn’t the only contributing factor to accidents.

If your crash was caused because another driver was speeding, driving while impaired, following too closely, or violating any other traffic law, we want to speak with you. Call today for a free consultation.