Although younger individuals generally tend to be more inexperienced than their older counterparts when it comes to the rules of the road, a recent survey has discovered that many young people have a surprisingly good grasp on what constitutes dangerous driving habits – even in circumstances where the individual is not yet old enough to drive.
For instance, Driving-Tests.org recently conducted an online study in which they surveyed 1,421 individuals using open-ended questions. At least three quarters of the respondents were between the ages of 14 and 24. Of those surveyed, a whopping 69 percent stated that texting was the most dangerous thing to do while behind the wheel – followed by drinking and driving with 9 percent and talking on a cellphone with 8 percent.
Dangers of cellphone use while behind the wheel
Sadly, the fears of those recently surveyed are indeed well founded in reality, especially when it comes to the dangers of cellphone use while driving. For example, earlier this year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report in which it discovered that an alarming 660,000 drivers use cellphones or other electronic devices at any given daylight moment on roadways throughout the U.S.
In fact, the NHTSA also reported that 387,000 people were injured in car accidents involving distracted drivers in 2011, with more than 3,300 additional individuals being killed.
Texting while driving laws in Georgia
Based on the dangers associated with distracted driving, many states have consequently banned the practice of texting while driving, including Georgia.
Specifically, Georgia law prohibits all motorists from using wireless telecommunications devices – such as cellphones and personal digital assistants – to “write, send or read any text based message” while operating vehicles on public Georgia roadways. However, there are exceptions to this law if the driver is reporting a crime, a medical emergency, an accident, or if the driver is legally parked.
It should also be noted that the dangerous habit of talking on cellphones while driving is not prohibited for most drivers under Georgia law. Indeed, talking on cellphones while driving is only illegal in instances in which the driver is under the age of 18 and has an instructional permit or Class D license.
Unfortunately, despite the fact that most motorists know that cellphone use is hazardous while driving, many will continue to engage in the practice. Accordingly, if a distracted driver has injured you or a loved one in a car accident, it is often best to seek the counsel of an experienced distracted driving accident attorney. A knowledgeable attorney can review the facts of your accident and help ensure your rights are protected.