Share:

Among the most common forms of distracted driving is texting while operating a motor vehicle. Texting and driving presents a serious hazard, as looking away from the road for even a second can cause an accident. To protect yourself and prevent your auto insurance rates from increasing, here are a few reasons to avoid the habit 

5 Negative Effects of Texting & Driving

1. You Endanger Yourself, Your Passengers, & Other Drivers

Looking at your phone instead of the road puts yourself, your passengers, and surrounding drivers in danger. Even if you’re driving on a quiet street, taking time to look at your phone could mean not seeing that deer run out in front of you or a child’s toy about to hit the windshield.

2. Your Auto Insurance Rates Can Increase

Tickets from texting and driving can easily cause your auto insurance rate to go up. How much your insurance increases from this distracted driving practice depends on where you live. On average, however, a texting ticket increased premiums by 23 percent across all 50 states.

3. You May Pay State Fines

auto insuranceAs with auto insurance rates, texting and driving penalties vary by state. In Texas, drivers pay between $25 and $100 for texting while behind the wheel. If you’re a repeat offender, expect your fine to double. In Florida, drivers face a $30 fine for their first offense and a $60 fine for the second. Keep in mind that fines are in addition to any vehicular damages and medical bills you have to pay for, whether they are yours or another driver’s.

4. Your License Could Get Suspended

Depending on how many offenses your driving record features, your license may get suspended. This means you would have to depend on public transportation, friends, family, or ride-share services to get where you need to go. The latter options get expensive fast, especially if you use one to commute to work every day.

5. You Could Go to Jail

Texting and driving that results in serious or fatal injuries can mean serving jail or prison time. How much time you serve will depend on your driving and criminal records and any other aggravating factors, such as excessive speeding.

 

Keep your auto insurance rates low by staying safe on the road and working with America’s Favorite Insurance & Tax. With locations DeSoto, TX, and Pompano Beach, FL, this insurance agency offers personalized services that ensure you get the coverage you need at a price you can afford. Call (972) 662-8221 today to schedule a consultation or learn more about auto insurance options online

tracking