Brittany Jackson

A couple of weeks ago, I was watching “Oprah” as she did a segment on the consequences of texting while driving. That’s what I want to talk to you about.

This is not just a “teen problem.” It really is an everyone-kind of issue. Millions of everyday Americans text while driving.

Here is a flash for you: texting while driving is just as dangerous as drinking while driving. People that send/receive text message while driving, or read and reply to emails cannot do so without taking attention away from the primary focusing – keeping eyes on the road.

According to “Science Daily,” a new study confirms what most people already know: “sending text messages and driving are a potentially lethal combination.”

By the time one realizes there has been some type of change in traffic, it can be too late, if you are driving and texting. Many teens and adults feel that they are invincible. Of course, nobody is.

So if you send me a text or message and I don’t answer immediately, I just might be driving. And my decision not to text while driving enhances the chances of me being able to get back with you.

(Brittany is a senior at Middle College High School. Contact her at iteen@tri-statedefender.com)