The minimal amount of time one’s eyes are off the road while texting and driving is five seconds.
If traveling at 55 mph, this equals driving the length of a football field.
Thirty-nine states have banned texting and driving, but even with laws in place, approximately 330,000 injuries happen every year in the United States because drivers continue to text while their vehicle is in motion. Injuries range from minor to severe, and include:
Whiplash – This injury is caused by an abrupt backward and/or forward jerking of the head. Symptoms may present immediately or within the first few days following the accident, and can include neck stiffness, headaches, and fatigue.
Spinal Cord Injuries – Spinal cord injuries are divided into two categories: complete and incomplete. A complete injury means the victim has no function of any kind below the point of the injury, while an incomplete injury means the victim has some function below the point of injury.
Traumatic Brain Injuries – A traumatic brain injury is a complex injury with a broad spectrum of symptoms and disabilities. The impact of such an injury can be devastating, and it’s said that no two injuries are alike. Symptoms may appear immediately, days, or even weeks after the accident. They include blurry vision, ringing in the ears, and confusion.
Broken Bones – Broken bones are a common injury after a car accident because of the extreme force exerted on the bones. They may include a broken neck, collarbone, femur, or ankle.
If you sustained injuries in a car accident because a driver was texting and driving, please contact us.