Car insurance rates continue to climb in Bucks and Montgomery counties just like the rest of the state. There are many reasons why rates are rising:
- Increased cost of repairs due to safety technology in cars today. They make cars safer but repairs more costly.
- Gas prices are low so people are driving more miles.
- More cars on the roads
But the most concerning reason auto insurance rates are rising is distracted driving and distracted walking.
Although distracted driving can be looking at your GPS or navigation system, eating or drinking coffee, changing the radio station; the most concerning distracted driving activity is texting while driving.
I saw a statistic that said when on the interstate traveling 60 MPH the average text would involve looking away from the road for the length of a football field.
Don’t think Bluetooth devices are the answer. Although better than hand held they still distract the driver.
No text or phone call is worth your life. If you need to take a call or make a call pull over to a parking area then make the call. We all hear and see stories of accidents while texting that are life changing for a family. The loss of a parent or child is devastating. Don’t let it happen to you!
I also mention distracted walking. We are seeing more and more claims where people are texting or looking at their phone while walking. They walk right into an intersection while texting and don’t look up. The result is more accidents involving pedestrians on their phones.
I hope this article will help just a few people put down the phone when driving and walking. I don’t want to see anymore claims involving pedestrian hit by cars while the walker or driver was texting.
I also want to make a plea to parents. Remember your kids are watching your driving habits. If you are texting while driving you not only put your life and other lives at risk but you are setting a terrible example for your kids.
I understand phones are important for all of us. But when did our lives become so complicated that we needed to be available to answer the phone or text immediately? I for one do not want people thinking I am available 24/7. I value my life and yours too much.
Spread the word as distracted driving is becoming an epidemic and as serious as drunk driving.
