The statistics proving why you shouldn’t text and drive are numerous and obvious. In the most simple form, texting while driving impairs your ability to remain focused on a task that requires your complete attention: driving a car. But to get more specific, did you know that you are 23 times more likely to be involved in a collision if you text and drive? How about that fact that your eyes leave the road for an average of 4.6 seconds per text? If you’re driving 55mph, that’s enough time to cover the entire length of a football field, all without looking up.
While those statistics can be frightening, there are positive steps being taken to crack down on the numbers associated with texting and driving. According to Verizon Wireless (who have been campaigning against texting and driving since 2000), 41 states have enacted legislation that bans sending text messages (including emails, tweets, etc.) while driving. They have also pledged to continue working with their partners—including Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and Save It Seattle—to make this problem a thing of the past.
One way they have done so is through the Safely Go app. This handy smartphone app allows you to block yourself from interacting with your phone when you’re driving your vehicle. It automatically sends messages to anyone who calls or texts you, “so you can focus on driving and stay responsibly connected.” That means that whoever’s trying to get in touch with you won’t feel ignored while you keep your eyes on the road.
You can learn more about Verizon’s campaign at their Don’t Text and Drive site.