News

Texting and Driving a Problem in Florida

Texting and driving is believed to be the cause of numerous fatal accidents, including one that occurred in Central Florida. 

Last year, 26-year-old Heather Hurd and 37-year-old Stephanie Phills were killed when a truck driver reached for his hand-held device to send a text message to his office and crashed into traffic at a stoplight on U.S. 27.  The trucker caused a 10-car pileup and was cited for careless driving, which is a non-criminal offense that has a $500 fine.

 A few months ago, a Tampa high school student crashed into a police car while she was texting.  As a result, she caused $3,000 in damages.

Miami-Dade Judge Steve Leifman, head of traffic court, has witnessed a growing number of crash cases where cell phone usage was a factor.  He also said that people are distracted in many ways, including brushing their teeth, putting on makeup, eating, combing their hair and texting and cell phone use.

According to Charles Golvin, an analyst for Forrester Research, as there are more programs designed to reach people on their cell phones, the potential to get distracted is increasing. The threat “is absolutely real,” says Golvin.

To raise the awareness of the dangers of texting and driving, the Florida Highway Patrol launched its Stay Alive, Just Drive campaign and handed out pamphlets regarding the dangers.

Read More About Texting and Driving a Problem in Florida...

back to top