TEXTING and driving is an issue today as many people still use their handphones while driving. It is distracting and the probability of getting involved in a car accident while driving is high.
I was alarmed when I read a report on the statistics of mobile phone use and accidents on the road.
A smartphone makes it easy for us to stay connected at all times. But it can pose a risk if you check your text messages, emails, phone calls, Facebook posts and other mobile apps while driving.
Statistics show that texting while driving caused more accidents than drink driving:
ONE in four car crashes involves mobile phone use;
TEXTING increases your chances of getting involved in an accident by 23 times.
ONE study shows that mobile phone users are more dangerous than drunk drivers; and,
THE greatest danger is to those in their late teens and 20s.
Reading a text message takes your eyes off the road between eight and 10 seconds.
Driving at 100kph, it is equivalent to travelling the length of a football field. What is scary is that the driver in front or at the back of you may be doing the same thing.
So, keep your eyes on the road and off your phone. It’s always better
to be safe than sorry.
n LIONEL PERERA,Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan