One in four vehicle crashes is caused by drivers texting or using other electronic devices. Multitasking can help you get several tasks done at one time, but it's always a bad idea when you're behind the wheel. It only takes a second for your attention to wander and an accident to happen. Learn more about the causes of distracted driving and what you can do to stay safe.
#whiledriving
Texting while driving is illegal in many jurisdictions. However, texting isn't the only distraction that causes accidents. A popular Twitter and Instagram social media hashtag, #whiledriving, has become common across the country.
According to a recent survey, 55 percent of #whiledriving users are men and 45 percent are women. The top states with the most #whiledriving posts are:
Top states with #whiledriving posts
- California
- Florida
- Texas
- South Carolina
- New York
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- Oregon
- Colorado
- Nevada
The top 10 most popular hashtags that accompany #whiledriving include:
Top hashtags accompanying #whiledriving
- Clouds
- Sunset
- Sky
- Nature
- Sun
- Nofilter
- Landscape
- Car
- Driving
- Selfie
Based on these hashtags, people often snap pictures of scenery while driving. Nature is great, but enjoy the view with your eyes rather than taking and posting the picture while you drive.
Insurance agents caution drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes and attention on the road while driving. However, that doesn't stop people from getting distracted. In addition to texting and posting pictures while driving, fatigue, other passengers, eating and daydreaming also divert attention from the road.
What if You See a Distracted Driver?
- Assume the distracted driver will not see your vehicle.
- Leave extra room between you and the distracted driver, even if you have to slow down or pull off the road.
- If you can't get away from the driver, pull over and call 911 to report the driver's behavior.
- Avoid road rage or other vigilantism.
Your safety and the safety of others on the road depends on every driver staying focused. Stop texting and driving or otherwise driving distracted.
For more information on staying safe on the road, coping with distracted drivers, or updating your auto coverage, see Driving School Insurance and Insurance for Auto Shows and Antique Car Exhibitions, or contact your insurance agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it always illegal to text and drive?
Laws vary by state or jurisdiction, but texting while driving is widely restricted; check local rules for specifics.
What counts as distracted driving besides texting?
Distracted driving includes anything that takes your eyes, hands, or mind off driving—such as eating, adjusting controls, or interacting with passengers.
What should I do if a distracted driver is following me closely?
Put distance between you and the driver by slowing down safely or changing lanes; if necessary, pull over in a safe place and call authorities.
Can taking photos from a moving car increase my insurance risk?
Yes—if a photo-taking incident leads to a crash, it can affect fault determinations and insurance claims.