Texting has become socially acceptable -- or at least socially tolerated -- almost everywhere today. Whether it's inside a nice restaurant, a museum, or even a place of worship, there are more than likely a few pairs of thumbs clicking away as messages are relayed. The most recent hot spot for using that fun little phone? The driver's seat.
In 2008, Nationwide surveyed more than 1,500 Americans, 18 percent of whom admitted to texting while driving. The statistics were even more disconcerting in the 30 years and under category, with about 39 percent admitting to texting while driving.
It's because of this and similar studies that a group of senators is pushing to pass the ALERT Act, which would prohibit any driver from sending text or e-mail messages while operating a vehicle. If the bill does pass, then any state that fails to enact a law banning texting while driving could lose up to 25 percent of its federal highway funds.
"Nationwide believes we can save lives by finding solutions to the problem through legislation, public awareness and encouraging the development of new technology," said Bill Windsor, Nationwide's safety officer. "In addition to saving lives, fewer crashes could result in lower auto insurance costs."
While technology is partially to blame for causing the problem, it may also be a solution to it. Nationwide is working with Aegis Mobility on a program that would advise callers and texters that the person they're trying to reach is driving. The technology is aimed at reducing the number of crashes caused by texting and other cell phone use while driving.
While legislation and bans may seem a bit harsh, the overall goal is safety. Yes, it may be difficult to ignore that text from your bff, but resisting the urge to reply will yield a safer drive. Ttyl.
Want to continue reading?
Become a Free PropertyCasualty360 Digital Reader
Your access to unlimited PropertyCasualty360 content isn’t changing.
Once you are an ALM digital member, you’ll receive:
- Breaking insurance news and analysis, on-site and via our newsletters and custom alerts
- Weekly Insurance Speak podcast featuring exclusive interviews with industry leaders
- Educational webcasts, white papers, and ebooks from industry thought leaders
- Critical converage of the employee benefits and financial advisory markets on our other ALM sites, BenefitsPRO and ThinkAdvisor
Already have an account? Sign In Now
© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.
