There are any number of distractions that divide the attention of drivers when they are behind the wheel of their car (or other type of motor vehicle) but texting (either reading or writing them or otherwise accessing your email and or using the internet) while driving is the singular most dangerous activity in which one can engage outside of drinking and driving and ranks as the highest form of driver distraction. Some studies find that it is even more dangerous than driving while intoxicated.
A series of highly publicized fatality accidents have been attributed to this activity - not all of them in automobiles. The most infamous example was the Chatsworth train collision in which 25 people lost their lives. It was later alledged that the train conductor was distracted and texting at the time of the crash.
A similar rail accident occurred in Boston only months later in nearly identical circumstances - and which has prompted legislation forbidding public officials from using their cell phones for texting (and other personal reasons) while on the job - including police and fire alike.
More recently, a plastic surgeon to the movie stars was thought to have been texting when he lost control of his car and went over the side of a mountain in southern California.
Technology enriches our lives in many ways. People in general and families in particular have come to rely on cell phones and texting to stay in touch - but with up to four thousand deaths in the last few years being directly attributed to 'texting' - the real message is don't drive and text!
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston auto accident attorney and the founder of the Baumgartner Law Firm, which is dedicated to helping injury victims seek civil justice. For a free- no obligation consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Houston call the Baumgartner Firm at 281-587-1111.
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