Risks of Text Messaging While Driving

One major concern that has emerged in recent years are the risks of text messaging while driving. When you consider the possible ramifications of talking on your cell phone while on the road, and then you add all the complications involved with typing and sending out a text message on a mobile phone, you can start to see how much potential trouble a user can find.

Even if we cast aside the legal issues for a moment, you have to realize that by sending and receiving text messages while driving is highly distracting for a number of reasons. This may lead to the running of red lights, swaying within your lane and possibly even causing fatal accidents. For the sake of the safety of not only yourself, but for all the other cars and pedestrians out there, please don't text and drive.

Risks of Text Messaging While Driving

I know what some of you are thinking: "It's not me, it's all those other people on the road that are causing trouble. I'm an excellent driver, and I can complete my morning commute blindfolded and with both hands tied behind my back. Sending a quick text message isn't going to hurt anyone."

Bzzz. Sorry. Wrong.

In an age where people are doing more in their cars, the last thing you need is another distraction. Far too many folks try to change the stereo, touch up their makeup in the vanity mirror and check their schedules on a PDA. There are countless risks of text messaging while driving, but here are the two most prominent actions that may lead to harmful consequences.

Eyes Off the Road

Time. No, I'm not talking about trying to shave a few minutes off the time it takes you to get to Grandma's house. When driving, whether it be on the highway or (especially) in congested city streets, an extra split second can mean the difference between life and death. While text messaging, your eyes are taken off of the road and onto your cell phone's screen and keypad. Sure, you may only glance at your handset for a split second to type in the next letter or two, but during that time, the car in front of you may brake suddenly. Or a young child may dart out from behind the school bus. You don't want to have that potential tragedy on your conscience.

Hands Off the Wheel

Even if you have a QWERTY cell phone like a Blackberry or Sidekick, for you to send an SMS, you necessarily have to take at least one hand (or even both hands) off of the steering wheel. Teens and business power users have become proficient in one-handed no-sighted operation of their portable text message machines, but even so, you've got a hand on your phone rather than on the wheel. This vastly reduces your ability to handle your car, especially under dangerous situations. What if you need to suddenly swerve in order to avoid an accident? You're much more likely to succeed if you have both hands free, rather than just one (or none).

General Distractions

The same can be said about participating in a voice call on your phone (even if you're using a Bluetooth headset), but when you're sending a text message, your attention is on the SMS and not on the road in front, beside and behind you. The hardest part of learning how to drive is learning to be fully aware of your surroundings at all times. It's that much more difficult when your mind is in a different place. This distraction may lead you to not notice the brake lights suddenly flaring up in front of you, the police cruiser coming up behind you or little Susie chasing her ball into the street.

Don't Text and Drive

Under no circumstances should you be sending a text message while you are driving. Yes, even when you are waiting at a red light. If you absolutely have to send an urgent SMS, please pull over to the side of the road first. This is not only for your safety, but -- more importantly -- the safety of everyone else.

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