It can happen in a split second, with no warning. It can happen to anyone, and it could change your life. The new “Don’t Text and Drive” commercial put out by the United States Department of Transportation aims to shock drivers-especially teenagers-into putting their phones down and paying attention to the road. Distracted driving has become an epidemic in recent years as cell phones, tablets, and other devices have come on the market. Teenagers are especially susceptible to the effects of distracted driving because of their inexperience behind the wheel combined with an almost rabid attachment to their cell phones.
The commercial pinpoints the teenage and young adult audience with the slogan, “U drive. U text. U pay,” with the hashtag #justdrive. It features a group of young women traveling in a car on a seemingly normal day. They are seen talking and laughing as the driver becomes distracted by her phone and misses a stop sign. In an instant, they are struck by an oncoming truck in the intersection. The extremely jarring scene unfolds as the car flips over multiple times before coming to rest.
In perhaps the most poignant scene, a police officer stands beside the wreckage and explains, “Nobody likes to be stopped by police, but if I’d seen her texting while driving and given her a ticket, it just might have saved her life.” The shocking images are meant to jolt teens into understanding the reality and consequences of texting while driving at point in their lives when they may feel invincible.
According to distraction.gov, a new government website aimed at combatting distracted driving, more than 70 percent of teens and young adults have sent or read a text while driving. That’s 70 percent of teens and young adults that have exposed themselves to the serious risk of severe or fatal injuries as a result of distracted driving. The solution is simple, according to the Department of Transportation-Pay attention to the road. Put down the phone for a second and it could really save your life, or the life of a friend. The commercial aims to push students to sign a pledge to refrain from using the phone while driving. In addition, the campaign makes resources and information readily available to young adults. WCVB reports that, “Text messaging for drivers of all ages has been banned in 43 states. Drivers of all ages in 12 states are banned from using hand-held cell phones while driving.”
Distracted driving remains a serious threat to public safety, killing and injuring tens of thousands of people a year; including but not limited to teens and young adults. Car accidents can happen at any time, and if you or a loved one has been injured as result of a negligent driver using his or her cell phone, we can help. At the Greater Boston Law Firm of Altman & Altman, LLP, our experienced team of Massachusetts Personal Injury Attorneys have successfully handled thousands of car accident injury cases, including accidents involving cell phone use. While no amount of money will ever compensate for your injuries, victims of personal injury and their families may be entitled to financial relief through a Personal Injury or a Wrongful Death Lawsuit. Distracted driving cases can be difficult and confusing to navigate on top of injuries and medical expenses, but our dedicated attorneys will carefully walk you through each step of the process. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and get you the compensation you deserve.
At the law offices of Altman & Altman, we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – including nights and weekends to answer any questions regarding your case. Call us today to schedule a free initial consultation and case evaluation.
Read the full article from WCVB
Watch the full commercial:
//www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_-6EoNhitg