Most drivers know that using a cell phone while driving increases the risk of a car accident significantly. With many states, including California, adopting a cell phone ban while driving, texting laws have closely followed. And even despite the laws which prevent dangerous cell phone use and texting while driving, many drivers still engage in unsafe distracted driving. But now, a new study illuminates the dangers of texting and driving in findings that suggest it is even more dangerous than once predicted.

The findings come from a Texas study that calculated reactions times of drivers engaged in texting and driving. Of those studied, texting while driving doubled the driver’s reaction time. The increase in time can easily be cause a car accident to happen, including failing to recognize necessary safety precautions such as failing to stop at a stop sign or red light, slowing down for children, giving pedestrians the right of way, and much more.

Most drivers who are not engaged in distracted driving can react within one to two seconds. However, those who text and drive can take up to four seconds to make a necessary driving decision – a startling amount of time for decisions that often need to be made immediately.

Reaction times slowed from one to two seconds with no texting activity, to three to four seconds while texting, the study found. The study found very little difference in response times between a driver composing a message and reading one.

And if drivers need more evidence that texting and driving is unsafe, the study does not stop there. For changing stop lights, a texting driver instantly puts his or herself at danger, including other drivers nearby.

Stop distracted driving now

Please don’t put your life and the lives of others at risk. Not only is it California law, but it’s the right thing to do: don’t text and drive! Consider the following tips to ditch the habit once and for all.

Install a text-free iPhone app

Using a text-free app will help you kick the urge to text and drive. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a texting app that reads your text aloud, or you can eliminate all incoming texts until you are stationary and no longer en route.

Make sure your teen is complying with the law

Try an app like TXTBlocker which empowers parents to track and end texting , including limiting cell phone use. There are many apps available, so parents are encouraged to shop around for the best fit for your family and teen.

Reward yourself for responsible driving

Using an app like SafeCell can actually be fun. This innovative app actually rewards drivers for not reading incoming texts or using cell phones while driving. Users can redeem earned points for cash or merchandise. SafeCell is another great text control app to consider for teens.

About the Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, APC.

The Law Office of Michael Pines specializes in San Diego car accident injury and has helped many injured people seek fair financial recovery. If you have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s distracted driving, call the firm now at 1-858-551-2090 for a free, confidential legal review of your case. There are no out-of-pocket costs, and our experienced legal team will guide you throughout the entire claims process. Call now, or submit your case online.