“Should I Wait to Send that Text?” The Dangers of Cell Phones and Driving

By Staff Writer

Whether you are cruising down the highway or winding back roads, or going from state-to-state, keeping 100% of your attention on the road is vital.  In the hustle and bustle of today’s society, it is no wonder that people are often tempted to use their cell phones when sitting behind the wheel of a car, but that’s no excuse for putting other people’s lives at risk.

How many more injuries and deaths will it take for people to truly realize the danger of mixing phones and driving?

Distraction.gov states that distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic on American roadways.  In 2012, 3,328 people were killed due to distracted driving-related accidents. Many more were injured.

Texting and driving, in particular, is considered one of the most alarming driver distractions, since it requires visual, cognitive and manual focus.

There are several reasons why using a cell phone can lead to a car accident, including:

• You can’t properly hold the steering wheel with two hands while texting;
• You can’t watch the road as you should when dialing or texting; and
• Your mind is not focused on driving safely if you are having a heated or exciting conversation.

Fortunately, many states have finally cracked down on cell phone usage.  Currently, 44 states have a ban on texting behind the wheel and 14 states ban cell phone usage altogether while driving.

Tennessee Cell Phone Law

Tennessee state law forbids the use of cell phones by drivers with a learner’s permit or an intermediate license (those who are under 18). This ban includes both hand-held and hands-free devices, as well as texting. Moreover, the state mandates that it is illegal for anyone to text and drive.

Drivers caught breaking the law will face a $50 fine, and those who hold learners’ or intermediate licenses will be hit with a $100 fine. Tennessee’s cell phone ban is a primary law, meaning officers can pull over a driver for using their phone without needing to see another violation.

The Tennessee car accident lawyers at Gilreath & Associates strongly encourage drivers to wait to think twice before sending that text message.  Your life and health, as well as the lives of the people around you, are far more important than any conversation you could have!

If you are involved in a distraction-related accident caused by you or another party, please contact us today for a free consultation.  The laws and complexities of these types of cases can be difficult, and you will likely need an experienced attorney who can walk you through all the steps to help build your case.

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