Texting while driving more deadly than drinking

New research carried out suggests that texting whilst driving effects motorist reaction times more so than being under the influence of drink or drugs.

Research carried out by the RAC has shown that on average reaction times by 17-24 year olds was 35 slower when reading or writing a text. Out of the drivers who were questioned 50 between 18-24 admitted texting behind the wheel.

In comparison previous studies have shown that reactions were 21 slower if the driver was under the influence of cannabis and 12 slower had been drinking to the legal limit.

At present if you are found to be using your mobile phone while driving you will face an on the spot fine of £60 and have three points on your licence. In 2006 a staggering 164,900 people were issued with this fixed penalty.

In August 2008 a new sentence came in to force for anyone who kills someone when they let themselves get distracted by avoidable distractions while driving. Motorists that allow themselves to lose concentration by reading a text message, glancing at a map, eating or putting on make up for example could receive up to 5 years imprisonment.

Those tested were almost unanimous in saying that they thought drink driving was the most dangerous action on the road. However the research show that more needs to be done to promote drivers not to use their mobile phones while driving.

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September 19^th 2008

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