Choose a “Designated Texter” Next Time
The Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority launched a “designated texter” campaign to encourage people to choose a designated texter to prevent texting and driving. Putting the cell phone away completely while you’re driving is the safest thing to do. Though, at the least, designating a person to read and send text messages in the car will may satisfy the urge to stay in constant contact with the rest of the world. When you’re alone this isn’t an option, so in that situation try putting your phone in your glove box to resist the urge to text, email, or surf the web while driving.
As reported by the Orlando Sentinel, Florida is one of only a few states that hasn’t passed a ban on texting while driving. Although previous attempts to make it illegal have failed, there are currently five bills being discussed in anticipation of this year’s legislative session.
Update: Florida texting and driving law went into effect July 1, 2019.
Don’t Be an Auto Accident Statistic
It’s been reported that drivers who text are 23 times more likely to have a car accident. Don’t be a statistic. Remember these simple rules and share them with your teenage drivers:
- Never Text and Drive
- If you’re in a car with someone texting while driving, tell them to stop
- Pick a “designated texter” and always keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
Talk to Your Teenage Drivers
Most importantly, parents need to talk with their teenage drivers about the risks of distracted driving. New drivers need to understand how real the danger is. Also, make sure you’re setting a good example for your child by putting your phone away when you’re driving, too.
