Using a cellphone while driving is breaking the rules of the road, therefore, breaking the law. Not only is being on the phone while driving distracting, it can also cause traffic, making other drivers uncomfortable on the road. Worst case scenario, it can lead to fatal accidents that may affect innocent law-abiding drivers.
Even though using a phone while driving is something not frowned upon, it is still not worth risking a life or many lives in cases where there are passengers in the car. Fuel supplier Shell South Africa shares the following points that may be the result of driving while distracted.
Driving while distracted can result in a wide range of errors, some of which may be fatal. These include:
- A lack of awareness of surrounding road users and potential hazards.
- Failing to see road signs and warnings.
- Struggling to maintain the recommended safe speed.
- Failing to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front; and
- Poor lane discipline and switching lanes without indicating.
Shell SA also adds that looking at all these problems that may arise from driving while distracted, “it should perhaps come as no surprise that research indicates that using the phone whilst driving can make drivers four times more likely to crash. Hands-free may be legal, however if a law enforcement officer believes the driver to be sufficiently distracted or out of control, they can be charged with careless or dangerous driving, resulting in a fine or even a prison sentence.”
Also see: 5 Ways to protect yourself from car theft and hijacking
