Distracted driving is against the law in Connecticut. That means that texting behind the wheel is also illegal. Connecticut has strict rules regarding distractions behind the wheel and specifically makes it illegal to use your phone behind the wheel.
Those who text while driving can be held responsible and may be cited by the police. While texting may only lead to a ticket under most circumstances, the reality is that it could lead to serious collisions, which is why it’s looked down upon and part of anti-distracted driving campaigns annually.
Knowing the statistics about distracted driving in Connecticut
Statistically speaking, distracted driving and texting are both major issues in the state. Texting while behind the wheel is so problematic among younger drivers that around 8% of those killed in the teenager age range between 15 and 19 were in crashes while a teen driver was distracted.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that the number of young drivers between the ages of 16 and 24 who have been caught or seen using their handheld electronics while driving have increased. Teens and young drivers are more likely to use these electronics than older drivers.
Being respectful on the road means putting your phone away
If you want to be respectful to others while you drive, you need to put your phone away. If you are expected to receive a text message or know that you need to send one, wait until you can pull over to check or send that message.
If you can’t wait to respond to a text or need to read what someone has sent, you could consider having someone else in the car send the text or read the text to you. Having someone else do this will help you keep your eyes on the road.
Remember, if you are hit by someone who was texting behind the wheel, you may be able to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. Texting increases the risk of being distracted behind the wheel, so it is reasonable to ask that those who were not paying attention cover the cost of care for those who have been injured.
