With the advent of mobile technology, the number of car accidents due to distracted driving has risen since mobile phones have become a common gadget among drivers. Whether texting, taking calls, scrolling through social media, or using certain mobile apps, using mobile phones while driving has become a leading cause of road accidents.
Distracted driving involving mobile phones is a prevalent problem in today’s society. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), drivers engaged in using their mobile phones while driving impair their ability to properly react and make quick decisions, increasing the risk of accidents by four times. Further research conducted by Zendrive reveals that the average driver uses their mobile phone during 88% of car journeys.
On a global scale, in countries where mobile phone use while driving is legally permitted, the number of road accidents resulting from phone use has rapidly increased. This scenario is particularly true in countries where laws relating to mobile phone use while driving are poorly enforced or non-existent. In a study conducted in the United States, it was discovered that mobile phone use while driving was responsible for approximately 1.6 million vehicle accidents each year.
The effects of mobile phone use while driving go beyond an increased risk of collisions. Mobile phone use also impairs the driver’s focus and attention, resulting in poor concentration levels and slower reaction times. The ability to multitask while driving has been shown to be impossible because drivers need to maintain constant focus on road conditions and vehicular movement. Mobile phone use while driving also increases emotional stress levels, decreases vehicle speed and may lead to traffic congestion, which are all factors that increase the risk of accidents.
Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the risks of accidents caused by mobile phone use while driving. Laws that require hands-free devices to be used while driving can serve as an effective deterrent for drivers who may be tempted to text or take calls while driving. There are also apps available that automatically activate when the phone detects that the driver is in motion. These apps can limit the phone’s ability to send messages, take calls, or access the internet while the vehicle is in motion.
In conclusion, the effects of the use of mobile phones while driving can be severe, leading to an increased risk of accidents. The increased use of mobile technology makes it more crucial to educate drivers about the dangers of distracted driving. Governments and companies can also work towards creating more effective laws and developing solutions to mitigate the risks associated with mobile phone use while driving. Drivers must be responsible and resist the temptation of using their phones while driving to ensure their safety, the safety of their passengers and fellow road users.
