The widespread use of cellphones means that texting has become one of the biggest threats to driver safety. Although most drivers admit that they understand the dangers of looking at your phone while on the road, a survey from AT&T® showed that 49% of adults still admitted to doing it, proving that the issue is larger than just teen drivers. But what can you do to help? The first step toward preventing an accident is understanding the danger, and the experienced instructors at The Driving School in Butler County, OH, have provided a helpful guide to make sure that you’re prepared to make safer choices while on the road.

What Are the Dangers of Texting & Driving?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 3,500 people were killed in 2015 due to distracted driving. Numerous studies have shown that texting while driving impairs brake reaction time, following distance, and driving speeds, with results being similar to the levels of a drunk driver. No matter how you look at it, texting while driving reduces driver safety.

Why Do People Text & Drive?

Part of the problem with how widespread this issue has become is that now texting while driving has become socially normalized. Studies suggest found that because texting while driving is so commonplace, people view it as acceptable even if the data shows otherwise. Others suggest that people are willing to text and drive because they’re used to being connected to others all the time, and that it’s difficult to resist the opportunity to stay up-to-date.

How Can You Prevent an Accident?

Speak up when you see someone deciding to text and drive. Show others that safety matters to you, and keep your eyes on the road even if you receive a text message while driving. If it helps, silence your phone to eliminate the temptation to check it after every notification. Tell others about the dangers of texting and driving, and promote driver safety whenever possible—after all, your actions could end up saving somebody’s life.

Whether you need to discourage a family member from texting and driving or improve your own driver safety, contact The Driving School. They have provided driving lessons to the people of Ohio for over 25 years, with branches in Fairfield, Oxford, Eaton, and Ross. Whether you’re a teenager looking to get your license or an adult interested in taking classes, visit their website to learn more or call (513) 523-7001 to ask about class availability.