Texting and Driving

Texting and driving are problems that continue to increase among teens. Teenage drivers are not only texting but also checking their e-mails and surfing the internet while driving. Sadly, every year, there are approximately 330,000 injuries from car accidents. Every day, 11 teens die from texting and driving.

What is the problem?

Texting and driving involve using a cellphone while driving a vehicle. This includes sending, receiving, or reading texts. It also incorporates checking e-mail and surfing the internet. Using the phone in any manner while driving is illegal, increasing the risk of an accident. Texting is a distraction to drivers on the road.

Texting and DrivingWhy is it Dangerous?

Texting and driving is serious. Statistics show drivers texting while driving are likelier to get into an accident. A driver texting is also more likely to cause an accident than a drunk person. Texting while driving puts your life and the lives of others in danger. Even in a short time, moving without being attentive can be disastrous.

If you are learning to drive, you are held accountable for what you do when you start your car. The driver is responsible for controlling the vehicle at all times. The driver is also required to obey traffic laws and drive safely. Texting and driving is irresponsible, and it breaks the law.

What are the penalties?

In Canada, there are restrictions against texting and driving. Drivers are not permitted to hold cellphones or other handheld devices while driving. Fines range from $300 to $1,000, plus three demerit points. Novice drivers or G1 license holders can have their license suspended for 30-90 days. After your third conviction, your license will be revoked, and you will be removed from the licensing system. You would then have to redo the licensing program for your license to be reinstated.

How to Avoid Texting and Driving

You are in control of the choices and decisions you make. You must make the personal decision to be a safe driver. If this is a challenge for you, here are a few tips that can help drivers reduce the temptation to text while driving:

  • Please turn off your cell phone or turn it to silent mode.
  • Keep your phone out of reach in the car.
  • Lock your phone in the glove compartment.
  • Give your phone to a passenger in the car so they can respond to a text or call you.
  • Send or leave a voice message to callers that you are driving and not to call.
  • Put notification sounds on silent.

You can also put apps on your phone to keep yourself from texting and driving. These hands-free apps have a variety of services that can block calls or read texts and emails out loud. Additionally, many car systems allow drivers to connect and operate phones using only voice commands. Since there are many safe alternatives to texting and driving, drivers can keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.