You might feel confident about your ability to multitask while you drive your vehicle. If you follow the speed limit, look up every few seconds and keep your music low, answering a text, for example, may not seem so harmful.
The truth is distracted driving claims thousands of lives in the United States each year. Even a momentary diversion from the road could send you into a tailspin and alter your life forever.
Delayed response
Even if you successfully do something while driving and you do not crash, the distraction could slow your response to road hazards. A delayed response might not be so bad in most cases, but if you drive distracted on the wrong day and at the wrong time, the outcome could have severe repercussions. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your decision to answer or send a text while traveling 55 mph is the equivalent of driving the span of a football field with your eyes closed. If a hazard crosses your path during that span, it leaves you with zero time to react.
Loss of control
Because of a delayed response, you could lose control of your vehicle. You might crash into someone else. Your actions could end up costing you your life. Passengers in your vehicle could sustain serious injuries or succumb to fatal wounds. Motorists around you may also collide with your vehicle and experience similar outcomes.
Regardless of what happens you might face ongoing pain and suffering because of the injuries you experience. You could deal with extreme guilt because of your actions. In serious cases, you might face prison time and serious legal repercussions. Distracted driving is never a good idea. Your diligence in driving responsibly could be a life-saving choice.
