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Can you drive blindfolded?
Staff Reports
Is distracted driving really a problem? YES! 80 percent of vehicle crashes involve some sort of driver inattention. Up to 3000 people nationwide are killed in crashes where driver distractions are involved, and thousands more are injured.

Distraction occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task: driving safely. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.

According to the CHP, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded. Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distraction simultaneously.

Some people still don’t know how dangerous distracted driving is. Others know about the risks of texting and talking while driving, but still choose to do so anyway. They make the mistake of thinking the statistics don’t apply to them, that they can defy the odds. Still others simply lead busy, stressful lives and use cell phones and smartphones to stay connected with their families, friends, and workplaces. They forget or choose not to shut these devices off when they get behind the wheel.

In 2008, California motorists were prohibited from talking on hand-held cellular phones while driving. A ban on texting while driving followed in 2009.  According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, all text-based communication, including e-mail and instant messaging, reading, writing or sending a text message are prohibited.  Both offenses carry $20 fines for first offenses and subsequent infractions are $50.  Be aware that additional fees and additional penalties can end up tripling the total fee amount. The convictions will appear on your driving record.  The law pertains to all drivers, regardless of age or state of residence.

There are special rules for young drivers, under the age of 18.  These new drivers are not allowed to use a wireless telephone, pager, laptop or any other electronic mobile device to speak or text while driving; this applies even if they intend on using a hands-free headset. The only exception to this new rule is in emergency situations to call police, fire or medical authorities.

The California Highway Patrol wants to remind you don’t become a statistic. Distracted driving is 100% preventable.