We bring and use our cell phones everywhere and all the time these days, but it could be more dangerous than you think. You’ve probably heard about the dangers of texting and driving, and might even know someone who has been a victim of an accident caused by it, but you may not know that talking on a cell phone while driving may be even worse.

The National Safety Council’s annual report found that 26% of all car crashes are connected to phone use, but only 5% involve texting while the other 21% involve drivers talking on hands-free or handheld cell phones. You already know that insurance premiums can go up when you get a ticket, so it’s time to stop the cell phone use and decrease the likelihood of getting a ticket or potentially hurting yourself or someone else.

At this point, people are so accustomed to talking on their cell phones while driving that it may be difficult to change their behavior, but many safety advocates are lobbying for a complete ban on cell phone use while driving, using studies which show that headsets do not reduce distraction to strengthen their argument. Some other studies even show that using a phone in the car, either hands free or not, can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence and more dangerous than speaking with someone else also in the car.
So what is the solution?
Put in the effort to make sure that you have your full attention on the road whenever driving. Whatever you need to talk to someone about, it can usually wait. If it can’t wait, then pull over. You’re not only putting yourself at risk, but also everyone else driving on the road. Best case scenario if you get in an accident while on the phone? It’s just a minor fender bender and you get a ticket. Worst case scenario? The crash is fatal for someone or everyone involved. So next time you go to use your cell phone in a car, think about the potential consequences. No conversation is worth it. Keep your eyes on the road and your attention focused on getting to your destination safely.
For information about how car insurance can help you, give us a call at 305-648-7070 or contact us at https://www.avanteinsurance.com.