Driving isn’t difficult. You just have to observe the road ahead, behind, and on either side. You have to steer the car within marked boundaries. You have to apply various foot pedals to speed up, slow down, or change gears. While doing all that, you can adjust the radio, the internal temperature, or your seatbelt. Of course, you also have to watch out for others on the road doing the same thing. Driving’s easy. Unless you add driving while distracted.

We love new customers. While we appreciate your business, we also encourage road safety and would much rather meet you at a local festival or city park than “by accident.” (Insert rimshot here)

Following someone who’s texting is like following someone under the influence…they’re not paying attention. You may have heard public service announcements that say distracted driving is dangerous driving. Law enforcement sponsor some of these spots, and are getting more serious about it. 34 states ban texting while driving, Ohio is working on a law for it. Fines for first-time offenders fines can be as low as $25, but with court costs can grow into the hundreds.

You may think your cell phone use is under control, and you’re an ace at texting and driving. Talking’s no problem, you can easily prop your elbow on the door to hold your phone to your ear. But think about this next time you take that call or message: The Insurance Institute for Safety reports that drivers using hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into an accident serious enough to cause injury.

There’s another cost. The National Transportation Safety Administration (NTSA) says in 2009, nearly 5,500 people were killed and another 448,000 hurt in vehicle crashes reported to involve distracted driving. 

Next time that cell phone rings while you’re driving, consider not answering it. You just might save your life.

If you’re in Norwood, Hyde Park, Pleasant Ridge, Blue Ash, or nearby areas, we’re close and ready to help you. We’re even closer through the web with a free repair estimate or to answer a question about your auto body repair needs. Connect with Jason or Nate at Center City Collision by e-mailing cccollision@gmail.com or call 513-631-2406.