Using a phone while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions on the road. Every year, thousands of accidents happen because drivers are focused on their phones instead of traffic. While the exact numbers are difficult to track, studies show that phone use contributes to a significant portion of car crashes.

The Numbers Behind Phone-Related Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving led to over 3,300 deaths in a recent year. Of these, phone-related distractions played a major role, with hundreds of fatal crashes directly linked to cell phone use. However, these numbers may be much higher since many drivers do not admit to using their phones after a crash, and police reports do not always have enough evidence to confirm phone use.

A study by the National Safety Council (NSC) estimated that about 26% of all crashes involve phone use in some way. This includes talking, texting, and using apps while driving. The risk is even greater for drivers who text while driving, as studies have shown that texting increases the chances of a crash by up to 23 times.

The Dangers of Phone Use While Driving

When a driver looks at their phone, even for a few seconds, they take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and attention away from driving. Research shows that sending or reading a text takes about five seconds. At 55 mph, that means a driver travels the length of a football field without looking at the road. This moment of distraction can lead to rear-end collisions, veering into other lanes, or running red lights.

Reaction time is also much slower for distracted drivers. Studies show that drivers using their phones take longer to respond to sudden traffic changes, such as a car stopping ahead or a pedestrian crossing. This delay increases the chances of severe accidents.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Younger drivers, especially those between 16 and 24 years old, have the highest rates of handheld phone use while driving. Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable because they have less driving experience and are more likely to engage in risky behavior. Studies show that in over half of all teen crashes, the driver was not paying full attention. About 12% of these cases involved phone use.

Parents with young children are also at high risk of distracted driving. Studies suggest that parents are 13% more likely to use their phones while driving compared to drivers without children in the car. The added distraction of tending to kids makes phone use even more dangerous in these situations.

Laws on Phone Use While Driving

Many states have laws prohibiting the use of handheld phones while driving. In Washington, it is illegal to hold a phone while driving, including texting, talking, or using apps. Drivers caught using their phones face fines, and repeat offenses carry even higher penalties. Despite these laws, many drivers still take the risk, believing they can glance at their phones without consequences.

Preventing Phone-Related Accidents

The best way to prevent phone-related crashes is to avoid using a phone while driving. Some tips include:

• Putting the phone on silent or using the “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving.

• Setting up navigation or music before starting the trip.

• Using hands-free options if a call is necessary.

• Pulling over safely if there is an urgent need to use the phone.

• Encouraging passengers to handle texting or calls instead of the driver.

Final Thoughts

Phone-related accidents are preventable, yet they continue to happen every day. The statistics make it clear—using a phone while driving puts everyone at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may have the right to seek compensation.

At Murphy Trial Law, we fight for victims of distracted driving accidents. Call (425) 835-2614 today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you.