Texting+While+Driving,+Dane

Texting while driving is a very dangerous thing to do. Texting slows down your reaction time and when you're driving you need a fast quick reaction time. According to studies, texting while driving is actually more dangerous than driving drunk. According to a study by Virginia Tech in 2009, texting while driving is 17 times more dangerous than talking on the phone while driving. One belief for why we can't stop texting is that most Americans believe they are above average drivers, when in fact they aren't. 20 states still do not have a ban on texting while driving. Only 8 states have a ban on talking on the phone while driving and no states have a ban on talking on a hands free phone. Penalties for texting while driving are pretty weak. They really don't make anyone care too much whether they get caught or not. In California, for a first time offense, the fine is a mere $20. Enforcing these laws are also nearly impossible as it is hard to tell whether a person is texting or not. In the end, I believe every state needs to put a ban on texting while driving and really crack down on it. I do think talking on the phone is alright as in my reaction time lab, my reaction time was actually better talking on the phone than not doing anything at all.