Verizon Works To Keep People From Texting While Driving
GLEN BURNIE, Md. (WJZ) -- Memorial Day to Labor Day are the deadliest days of the summer for drivers, especially young drivers. Many of the accidents are caused by distracted driving.
As Gigi Barnett reports, one cell phone company is showing drivers just how dangerous distracted driving really is.
Sunglasses on, cell phone in hand and car turned on could be a deadly combination for some drivers---but for the one in a texting while driving simulation, it's lives saved and lessons learned.
"Wait 'til I get where I'm going or if it's important enough, pull over on the side of the road," said Matt Watkins.
That's the message the Verizon Wireless store in Glen Burnie wants all of its customers to get.
The retailer offered cell phone users a test drive in the simulated car this weekend because the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends are considered the 100 deadliest days for young drivers.
"For teens, we're putting a focus because it's the summer, they're out, they're driving and they're also texting," said Verizon spokeswoman Akisha Hurley. "We want you to communicate. We don't want you to text and drive."
Talbot Watkins got the message. He tells his teens too, but says sometimes it's hard to resist.
"I'm in business and at work and I always think it's gotta be answered," he said.
At the end of each simulated drive, every participant gets a card, reminding them not to text while behind the wheel. Those who do are 23 times more likely to get into an accident.
Texting while driving is a primary offense on Maryland roadways.
