I’ve been guilty of texting & driving. I’ve text with friends on my passenger side, with my own kids in the car. And I’ve been the passenger of friends who text while driving. I considered myself to be a cautious texter as many do. By this, I mean…sending quick texts, sometimes abbreviated or one just word.
The Don’t TEXT While DRIVING Campaigns have made an impact in my decision to stop. I admit I may read a text or reply while sitting at a traffic light but I’ve even began to limit this.
The first Don’t TEXT While DRIVING campaign I saw was from a church sign that went viral on Facebook and Twitter; although it may seem humorous at the time, it sent a powerful message:
“HONK IF YOU LOVE JESUS — TEXT WHILE DRIVING IF YOU WANT TO MEET HIM.”
Well, I love JESUS but my journey on this earth isn’t over just yet.
This message in addition to other Don’t TEXT While DRIVING campaigns began to surface including Oprah’s NO PHONE ZONE urging those on her show, from audience members to celebrities guests to pledge not to text while driving.
AT &T released a Don’t Text While Driving-The Last Text Documentary earlier this year, but it’s an important reminder to prevent such unnecessary tragedy. As a mom with a teenage driver, I made my daughter watch this video and I believe everyone needs to watch this, including experienced drivers.
The AT & T Don’t TEXT While DRIVING Documentary was posted by Facebook friend Cheryl Phillips, who writes for the Examiner. Thankfully, Cheryl was fortunate not to be a casualty as a result of a texting driver who slammed into her vehicle, but she has suffered injuries that has included several knee surgeries and two years on crutches since.
According to studies, your chances of getting into an accident increases by 23% if you text while driving.
