Lexi Montanaro [Texting While Driving]

While doing research in choosing a topic for my social problems project I came across the issue of TWD [texting while driving]. Almost every single website and every article that I came across had something negative to say about TWD. Statistics and proof with deaths and accidents in general are everywhere all over the Internet. The pictures and the stories, even some videos are horrible and terrifying to watch. There obviously has not been an effective enough solution to this problem because people are still dying and getting hurt everyday from accidents caused by texting and driving. Proposing a solution seems to be banning the use of cell phones in all ways while driving, but somehow even in the states that have already banned TWD it still occurs.

A study done in Utah came about when the idea of making the consequences of texting while driving the same as a DUI.

“The push for harsher penalties for texting while driving comes from studies showing using a cell phone on the road is as distracting as drunk driving. According to research, scientists claim talking on a cell phone is like driving with a .08% BAC, and texting is like having a .16% BAC. (Bethany Henderson, DUIattorneys.com)

“Punishments range by state. Many states impose a ticket which will go up in fines with repeat offenses. Utah has made the offense worth up to 15 years in prison if serious injury is caused. (Bethany Henderson, DUIattorneys.com)”.

It is shown that damages done by people who are using their phones and driving are severe enough to cause repercussions of a drunk driving accident so why not make the penalties for those causing the incidents be the same as drunk drivers. I personally believe that this is a great idea and that it could possibly save lives with the fear being instilled upon drivers that they are at risk of doing up for 15 years in prison for texting while driving.

3 Responses to “Lexi Montanaro [Texting While Driving]”

  1. student says:

    Katherine Blackford (FGCU)
    I agree that texting while driving is dangerous and there should be a penalty. TWD can easily distract you and cause an accident. I know I try to only use my phone when stopped at a red light or parked but sometimes it is easy to reach for your phone. These days people are so use to their phones they don’t even think about it. It really does take effort and a decision on your part to not answer the phone if it goes off. I think answering a call can almost be as distracting too. If you have to reach for a phone it could cause a problem. TDW is an issue that our legislature will have to decide about and enforce all over the country. I think the penalty should be consistant no matter what state you are in.

  2. Deanna Ceccoli (edison) says:

    I agree with you, texting while driving is not only dangerous to those driving but those around them as well. There should be a harsher penalty for it. It seem that by doing that may be the only way to get it through peoples heads. I saw in a recent study at edgarsnyder.com that over 60% of American teens admit to risky driving, and nearly half of those that admit to risky driving also admit to texting behind the wheel. Each year, 21% of fatal car crashes involving teenagers between the ages of 16 and 19 were the result of cell phone usage. This result has been expected to grow as much as 4% every year. Almost 50% of all drivers between the ages of 18 and 24 are texting while driving. Those are some crazy stats that really need to be reduced! I mean really.. is it worth writing back to some one “nothing much you?” people could wait a couple extra minutes until their not driving and save lives of all those around them. I cant tell you how many times ive seen someone swerving in and around their lane and I pull up to them and their texting. It does need to be stopped now before more lives are taken!

Leave a Reply