Texting And Driving In Arizona

In 2019, the state of Arizona passed legislation that would make texting while driving illegal. Up until then, Arizona had been one of only three states where this activity was legal. There are numerous studies that show the dangers of distracted driving, but texting while driving is especially dangerous given how much of our attention it diverts from the road.

Why Is Texting While Driving So Dangerous?

We may not think about it as such, but driving is a process that requires our cognitive skills. As we’re driving, we are processing information about our speed, our location on the road, and the location of other vehicles relative to our own. Driving also puts us in the position of having to potentially make very quick decisions, sometimes ones that require less than a second to complete. Even something as simple as having a conversation with another person can divert brain activity that could be used for driving. The dangers are multiplied multiple times over though when not only are you cognitively distracted, but you also are looking at your phone instead of the road, and using your hand or hands to type, instead of keeping them on the wheel.

Am I More Likely To Cause An Accident If I’m Texting While Driving?

The short answer is, “Yes.” Some studies have shown that texting while driving is even more dangerous than driving drunk. Texting can slow down your reaction time and greatly increase the amount of distance your vehicle travels when trying to come to a sudden stop. This could send you and your vehicle careening into another driver. Conversely, if another person is texting while driving, they could end up crashing into you. Should this happen, you’d want to take immediate action in contacting an attorney with experience in automobile accidents.

All Distracted Driving Is Dangerous

Showcasing the dangers of driving and texting should not be interpreted as an excuse to do less dangerous tasks; anything that is diverting your physical and mental attention from the act of driving is a potential danger to yourself and other motorists. If you’re participating in an activity that is considered to be distracted driving and you cause an accident, you could be found negligent and be subject to a lawsuit from another driver you’ve injured or damaged the property of. You do not want to be responsible for the financial costs of another person’s repair and medical bills, nor do you want to be responsible for their pain or their life. If you’re going to be driving, keep your phone out of your hands; it’s as simple as that.

Injured By A Texting Driver? Contact An Attorney

The Arizona texting and driving law doesn’t go into effect until 2021; even then, some motorists will continue to ignore the law and drive irresponsibly. If you are the victim of a crash where the other driver was texting or distracted in another way, contact the ELG ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS, PLLC for a free consultation. Auto accidents can damage both you and your vehicle, resulting in repair bills and medical bills that you should not be responsible for if due to the recklessness of another driver. Our team of experienced lawyers is here to listen to your potential case and get you the money you deserve. Call us at 623-562-3838 to pursue your legal options today.