For many, younger motorists are believed to be the generation of drivers most likely to have their noses buried in their cellphones while driving. In fact, here in Missouri, texting while driving is currently only prohibited for drivers aged 21-years-old or younger.
However, a recent survey conducted by AT&T directly challenges these preconceived notions as it indicates that teenagers may be getting a bad rap for being the worst at texting while driving. In particular, the survey discovered that adults may actually be more likely than their younger counterparts to be sending texts while behind the wheel.
Interestingly, the recent survey discovered that 49 percent of adult respondents admit to texting while driving – compared to only 43 percent of teen drivers. Even more frightening is the fact that a whopping 98 percent of adult survey respondents acknowledged that texting or emailing while driving is unsafe – although almost half continue to do it.
However, the results of the survey did indicate that texting while driving may be a recent phenomenon among adults. For instance, 60 percent of adult respondents claimed they never texted while driving a mere three years ago – meaning the texting-while-driving epidemic is getting worse despite public awareness that it is extremely dangerous.
Based on these results, it may be time for many states to revisit their texting-while-driving prohibitions, or in the case of Missouri, expand them since they currently only apply to younger drivers.
Specifically, the Missouri texting-while-driving ban expressly states that no person aged 21 or below may use a hand-held electronic wireless communications device – such as a cellphone, blackberry or other portable electronic device – to write, read or send a text message while operating a vehicle in Missouri. However, the does not apply if:
Unfortunately, while it is still technically legal for Missouri motorists over the age of 21 to text while driving, that does not mean these drivers cannot be distracted by their phones just as easily as younger drivers. Both young and old drivers need to be held accountable if their texting habits result in car accidents
If you or a loved one has been injured by a texting driver, it is often important to contact a knowledgeable distracted driving accident attorney to be advised of your options given your circumstances. An experienced attorney can assist in gathering important evidence and help ensure your rights are protected.
