You Text. You're Next
In August 2009, Missouri became the 29th state to ban texting while driving. While the Missouri law and subsequent $200 maximum fine applies only to drivers 21 years and younger, the spirit of the law recognizes the dangers of texting, i.e. sending, reading or writing an electronic message, while driving causes for drivers of all ages. Texting is new enough that specific texting related car accident statistics are not yet available, but studies by the American Medical Association show texting drivers spend 400% more time with their eyes off the road than non-texting drivers. While it doesn't take a statistician to realize that when one's eyes aren't on the road, it is much easier to cause an accident, the American Automobile Association estimates that texting while driving increases the chance for a car accident by 50%--for any age driver.
The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety has created new public safety announcements to remind teens of the new law and remind all of us of the deadly consequences of distracted driving. If you hear these PSAs on the radio while driving, listen up and take the message to heart, but keep your eyes on the road.
Listen to the PSA radio spot-Grounded
Listen to the PSA radio spot-Spell It Out
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a texting or otherwise distracted driver, please contact The Krebs Law Firm for a free consultation on your rights for recovery.
