Cell Phones and The Impact on Accidents

How Cell Phones Impact Motor Vehicle Accidents

Cell phones have become a key part of our lives, but their use while driving can lead to increased motor vehicle accidents. When drivers use their cell phones behind the wheel, it diverts their attention from the road. This results in distracted driving and significantly increases the risk of accidents. Messaging, talking on the phone, or using apps while driving impairs a driver’s ability to react quickly to all hazards and other driver’s mistakes, putting themselves and others at risk.

According to Forbes, distracted driving contributes to approximately 25% of all motor vehicle crashes in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2019, distracted driving resulted in 3,142 deaths and an estimated 424,000 injuries. These numbers highlight the seriousness of the issue.  Deaths are not the only indicator of how much cell phones have increased accidents. Over the years vehicle safety features have increased yet our attention span has decreased.  I rarely pass more than a few vehicles when I see at least one person distracted by their phone. Research shows that drivers who text behind the wheel are six times more likely to be involved in an accident compared to those who solely focused on driving. Talking on the phone, whether using hands-free or not, can be a distraction that increases the risk of crashes. Using a cell phone while driving divides our attention between the road and the device. Texting, for instance, requires visual, physical, and cognitive focus, taking our eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and mind off driving. This combo of distractions impairs our ability to react quickly to changing traffic conditions.

To prevent accidents caused by cell phone distractions you must stay focused while driving. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the road:

Silence or store your cell phone: Before you start driving, put your cell phone on silent mode or store it in a place where it won’t distract you. This helps minimize the temptation to check or use your phone while driving.  If you have a dash mount and use it as GPS, it will minimize the need to reach for your phone as it is in front of you already for navigation purposes.

Use driving mode features: Many smartphones offer driving mode features that automatically disable certain functions or send automated responses to incoming calls or messages. Activate these features to minimize distractions.

Plan ahead: If you need to use your cell phone for navigation or other purposes, get it ready before you begin driving. This way, you won’t have to mess with your phone while driving your vehicle. Being early will help accomplish this.

Pull over: If you must use your cell phone or address an urgent problem, find a safe place to pull over before doing so. Taking a break from driving to handle issues ensures your full attention is on the road when you resume driving.

Cell phone use while driving can have life changing consequences that are avoided by just putting the phone down. By understanding the dangers of distracted driving and actively choosing to stay focused on the road, we can help make safer driving environments for ourselves and others. Remember, when you’re behind the wheel, keep the eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.  If you find yourself suffering from pain caused by a MVA then the doctors at Chambers Medical Group can help.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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Have you been in a car accident? If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident, be sure that you seek medical attention from a car accident doctor or car accident chiropractor to treat your injuries. Visit Chambers Medical Group  to receive world-class medical treatment for your injuries.

Chambers Medical Group has car accident medical clinics in the following locations:

• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Tampa
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Plant City
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Brandon
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lakeland
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Sarasota
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Louisville
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lexington
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Florence