According to one source (Human Factors Quarterly Journal), cell phone distractions were responsible for more than 2500 deaths and more than 300,000 injuries in the US each year…and that was in 2005. Can you imagine the statistics today? Take a look around next time you are in a car driving at the number of people on cell phones while they drive. Check it out at traffic lights, the results are staggering.

The same study that provided the report in 2005, also reported that drivers using cell phones while they drive are less capable than drivers who are on the road that are legally drunk (.08 alcohol level or above). To make matters worse, our children are on the road with these drivers (and may be guilty of using cell phones while driving themselves).

Today, more than ever, you must be a defense driver. Cars should be like airplanes, you should be required to turn them off while driving. A sound from your cell phone indicating a text message or a phone call is just too tempting and too distracting. Drive safely, drive responsibly and stay alive and healthy. Some states and cities have already taken action and made it illegal to drive while using a cell phone. If you make it practice to turn off your cell phone while driving, you will not need to worry about the distractions or paying a high fine in one of these states or cities, and your chances of causing an accident greatly decrease.

However, if you are involved in an auto accident, including a car accident involving the use of a cell phone, you should contact the police department, seek medical attention and contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to ensure your rights and legal interests are fully protected.