Texting and driving is a dangerous behavior that poses significant risks on the road. It creates three types of distractions while driving:
- Visual distraction: Taking eyes off the road to look at a phone.
- Manual distraction: Taking hands off the wheel to handle a phone.
- Cognitive distraction: Diverting mental focus away from driving.
The momentary lapse in attention caused by texting significantly increases the risk of a car accident. Drivers may fail to respond to potential hazards and obstacles.
Injuries caused by texting and driving
A texting and driving accident can result in minor to severe (and even fatal) injuries. Some of these injuries include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash, strains, and sprains can occur in the neck, back, and shoulders due to sudden jerking movements during a collision.
- Broken bones: More severe accidents can lead to fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or facial bones.
- Head injuries: Texting and driving can result in mild to severe head injuries. These injuries can lead to cognitive issues, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and other issues.
- Spinal cord injuries: High-impact accidents may lead to spinal cord injuries. This can potentially lead to paralysis or long-term disability.
- Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs. This can lead to internal bleeding, organ lacerations, ruptured organs, or other internal injuries.
- Burns: A vehicle may catch on fire during a crash, leading to burns and smoke inhalation injuries.