March 3, 2010

Is Texting More Dangerous Than Talking On A Cell Phone While Driving

Cell phone driving is a dangerous habit that many people participate in on a daily basis. In the comparison between which is worse, chatting or texting, texting is definitely more dangerous than chatting while driving. Here is why; texting requires that you are looking at the phone while doing it. In contrast, with chatting, you don’t have to be looking at anything to engage in a successful conversation with someone.

This is not to say that chatting on your cell phone while driving is a safe option. First, think about how it affects other motorists. After all, we all have places to be and we all have to share the roadways. What are the times you are most tempted to call or text? For example, is it when you are sitting in dead locked traffic or sitting at a stop light? There are most likely cars sitting behind you, waiting, just as you are and you decide to send a quick text to a friend to tell them that you are on your way. Well, within seconds the light can change or traffic can move and all of a sudden you have a bunch of cars honking because they should not have to wait for you to finish your text. Studies have shown that texting or talking on your cell phone while driving increases the rate of accidents similar to drinking and driving.

The road is made for traveling and anything that is impeding that process is seen as a problem. As this has become a more common problem, more and more states are making laws against driving and chatting on a cell phone or texting. These new laws mean that you can get a ticket and a fine for chatting on a cell phone or texting while behind the wheel. These tickets can result in a mark on your record and higher auto insurance premiums, depending on the state that you live in. When researching auto insurance quotes you may now be asked about your habit of texting or chatting on your phone while driving. If you are like everyone else you are concerned with the price you pay for car insurance and you should be doing everything in your power to ensure a lower rate. Texting while driving is a quick way to not only wind up in an accident, but also, as another repercussion, have to shell out exorbitant amounts of money for auto insurance. So, why would you do it? Because it’s convenient? Because you must text that person immediately and it really can’t wait? Well, ultimately with texting and driving the costs outweighs the benefits.