Why Texting and Driving are More Deadly Than Drinking and Driving

Despite similarities in sensory addiction and cognitive impairment, texting and driving are often viewed less critically than drinking and driving. This article explores the reasons behind this perspective and underscores the importance of treating both behaviors as serious threats to safety.

The Similarities in Addictive Behavior

Both texting and drinking while driving are sensory addictions that divert attention away from the road. When you cannot stop or resist the urge to engage in either activity while driving, it is a clinical indicator of addictive behavior. This addiction often stems from a false sense of security and justification, similar to rationalizing that it is acceptable as long as it is "everyone else's" behavior or that you remain a competent driver.

Mirroring Physical Limitations and Cognitive Impairments

Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal that the actions of someone talking or texting while driving are equivalent to driving legally drunk. Both behaviors result in significant cognitive impairment, such as:

A severe lack of situational awareness Significantly slowed reaction times Constant lane deviances Inability to maintain consistent speeds Aiming the vehicle at fixed locations instead of steering it to follow the roadway

In other words, both behaviors impair the driver's ability to safely navigate the road, increasing the risk of accidents.

The Effectiveness of "Hands Free" Devices

While the use of hands-free devices might seem like a solution, it does little to reduce vehicle accidents. Research has shown that merely holding a mobile device and typing while driving remains a significant distraction, regardless of whether the device is in the hand or on a speaker. The visual and cognitive demands of having a conversation while operating a vehicle remain high, putting everyone at risk.

Accident Statistics and Trends

Despite common misconceptions, texting and driving are more deadly than drunk driving. According to NHTSA data:

The number of deaths per year from drunk driving is around 30,000, equating to 82 deaths per day. The number of deaths per year from distracted driving is around 50,000, equating to 136 deaths per day.

This represents a full third more deaths from distracted driving than from drunk driving. It is crucial to understand that the question of why people do not view these two behaviors in the same light is central to the discussion on road safety.

Perceptions and Emotional Distractions

When comparing the act of picking up an adult beverage and taking periodic sips with the behavior of holding a steering wheel and looking down to type, there is a clear difference. The latter can be especially dangerous when the conversation is emotional, as screen interactions can be more intense and unexpected.

Driving is a responsibility that demands full attention and concentration. Any form of distraction, whether from a phone or alcohol, compromises this responsibility. It is essential for drivers to resist the urge to engage in such behaviors, regardless of the perceived frequency or reason behind them.

Final point: neither behavior should be condoned. When you are behind the wheel, you must concentrate and pay full attention to all others around you. Remember, your actions can have a ripple effect on the safety of your passengers and other road users.