Why Distracted Driving Is Such A Serious Offense

March 6th, 2010

Distracted driving bills are being passed in many states, with some Senators proposing federal legislation. Distracted driving is usually defined as, well, just that: A driver who is driving while doing something potentially dangerous, such as text messaging or surfing the Internet on a smart phone, is violating the law and may be subject to fines. Some states immediately impose fines, while others give drivers several warnings, but in any case, there's a big crackdown on drivers who operate vehicles without using their full attention. This leaves some drivers wondering what the big deal is–text messaging hardly seems like the most important issue in the world. However, distracted driving is a serious problem across the country.

To understand why, it's easiest to compare driving while distracted to driving while intoxicated–it seems at first like a strained analogy, but consider that the purpose of DUI legislation is to stop drivers from being on the road if they're unable to react to the sudden situations. If an accident is avoidable, a driver doesn't stand a great chance of reacting quickly if he or she is focused on writing or reading a text message. Some studies have indicated that driving while distracted is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated (though others have countered this assertion). In any case, the roads of every state are more dangerous with inattentive drivers.

That's why many drivers are seeing their car insurance quotes increase as a result of violations of the new laws. The cost of car insurance coverage is directly tied to a driver's record, and as distracted driving violations are seen as a sign of a dangerous driver, it may be difficult for offenders to find a cheap car insurance quote after a conviction. There's a bright side; more laws also mean lower quotes for drivers that are able to keep a clean record. By staying safe and avoiding distracting activities while driving, it's possible to find lower premiums.

There are a number of ways for drivers with citations to keep their premiums at a reasonable level, including defensive driving courses and choosing a safe vehicle. However, the best technique is to use online auto insurance comparison websites to collect as many quotes as possible. Multiple quotes allow a driver to find good coverage at a decent rate, and drivers with existing policies can negotiate with their insurers to get discounts. Distracted driving laws are important, and work for the safety of the public, but everyone makes mistakes. Practicing safe driving techniques and gathering quotes can help drivers keep their car insurance costs in check.

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