I ended a previous post about texting and driving with “It’s illegal in some states but dangerous in all.” Two and a half years later, the message and the danger has remained the same. The carriers have provided some additional resources since then.
The website It Can Wait asks drivers to take a pledge to not drive distracted. Verizon is promoting the site and other resources with Stay Focused: Don’t Text & Drive.
- There is a 23x increased likelihood of being in an accident if texting while driving compared to driving while not distracted.
- 89% of American adults think texting or sending e-mails while driving is distracting, dangerous, and should be outlawed.
- 39 states in the U.S. have laws that ban texting while driving.
Another resource provided is an Android app called Safely Go. It only allows contact from select “VIPs” while telling others that you are on the road and can get back to them later.
Sprint’s branding of the same topic is called Drive First. They charge for a similar service but offer a 15-day trial.