5 Shocking Texting and Driving Statistics

Despite the fact that texting and driving is prohibited in 48 states, it remains a common problem around the country. At any given time of day, nearly half a million motorists are using their mobile devices and putting themselves and everyone else on the road around them at risk of serious injury or death.

Here are a few more shocking texting and driving statistics to consider the next time you’re tempted to send a quick message while behind the wheel:

1. Contributes to 3,000 Traffic Deaths—and More Than 300,000 Injuries—Annually

In 2017 alone, distracted driving was responsible for 3,166 traffic fatalities. An additional 1,000 people are injured every single day in distracted driving-related wrecks.

2. Causes 1 out of 4 Accidents Around the Country

Shockingly, about 1 out of 4 collisions in the United States occur because someone was texting while behind the wheel. In other words, there may be 25 percent fewer wrecks—and far fewer injuries and fatalities—if everyone stowed their phones upon hitting the road.

3. Increases the Risk of a Collision by 23 Times

In one 18-month study, researchers determined that motorists who texted while driving were 23 times more likely to get into an accident. Texting even played a role in the crashes for which the distracted motorist wasn’t at fault. Had they been paying attention, they might have been able to spot a risky situation and avoid it altogether.

4. It is a Problem Among All Age Groups

In 2017, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania proved a statistical theory that parents of teenagers have known for a while: young motorists are more inclined to engage in risky behaviors behind the wheel. As such, it’s easy to lecture them on the dangers of texting and driving. In reality, though, texting is common among drivers of all ages.

Statistics indicate that as teens get more comfortable in the driver’s seat, they start using their phones more, which would explain the gradual increase in doing so. For example, 58 percent of drivers between 16 and 18 have admitted to using a phone behind the wheel, as have 72 percent of motorists between 19 and 24. As for those between 25 and 39, a shocking 82 percent have claimed they’ve used a mobile device while driving.

5. Can Be More Dangerous Than Drunk Driving

Some of the more conscientious motorists would never even consider getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol. If they use their phone while driving, though, they’re actually participating in even riskier behavior. In certain scenarios, the reaction time among those who are texting is actually slower than it is among those who are impaired.

Discuss Your Case with a Car Accident Attorney in Florida

If you were hurt in a distracted driving-related wreck, contact Emerson Straw for skilled legal counsel and aggressive representation at every stage of the claims process. We’ve recovered more than $27 million in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Call (727) 821-1500 or use our Online Contact Form to set up a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Florida.