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Texting and driving have had a huge impact on society, mainly teenage drivers. It’s already dangerous enough being a young driver who lacks experience but also not knowing what the drivers around you will do.
“Drivers on the road are not very predictable. Staying off of your phone can help you better see the road and the drivers around you” said sophomore Alivia West. “When I’m in the car with a friend or my boyfriend I will not let them get on their phone at all.”
Teenage drivers have a higher crash rate, mainly because of their maturity, lack of skills, and lack of experience. Since phones have become more and more addictive, texting while driving has become more common.
While it’s not recommended, there are safer ways to talk to people while driving.
“A way to circumvent irresponsible driving habits, mainly pertaining to cell phone use, would be to use Siri to utilize your phone, or other hands-free options,” said Spanish teacher Dylan Parker.
The apps that have been created have become so addictive that it’s hard to stop scrolling. If it’s difficult to put the phone down while doing an activity, how difficult is it to put it down while driving?
“If you’re looking at your phone for even 5 seconds going 55 mph, you would be going the length of a football field that’s 360 feet,” said sophomore Abigail Moore.
Not only are you putting yourself at risk, but you’re also putting others at risk as well. By texting and driving, you aren’t just endangering yourself, you are also endangering everyone else on the road.
“My oldest son got in a wreck because he was texting and driving,” said assistant principal Carla Stanley. “Any time I see my husband on his phone while driving I make him put it down.”
It may be hard to put the phone down, but once you know the risks and what could happen, you may rethink your decision. Putting the phone down and putting all of your attention on the road is the best option for everyone on and off the road.
