Text messaging while driving found to be more dangerous than drunk driving

The next time you try to text your buddies "on the way, c u there" while driving, consider this: Driving while text messaging is more dangerous than drinking and driving or driving under the influence of marijuana. 

The Transport Research Laboratory in the U.K. (via The Times Online) found that when subjects were text messaging and driving at the same time, reaction speed was reduced by 35 percent, thereby increasing the likelihood of an incident. Those that were driving and drinking within the legal limit only suffered a 12 percent loss of reaction speed, and those that were driving under the influence of marijuana had their reaction speed reduced by 21 percent, 14 percent lower than while driving and texting.

Another startling statistic: According to the study, those that were texting and driving reduced their steering ability by 91 percent. 

The worst part about the whole thing, in my opinion, is the general public's lack of knowledge on just how dangerous it can be. Everyone knows how dangerous it can be to drink and drive, but really, does everyone know that even picking up your cell phone for a quick text reduces your reaction speed by three times?

So, what do you all think? Does driving under the influence of texting your BFF appear to be more dangerous than driving under the influence of alcohol? Do you believe laws should be passed to prohibit this action, like in Washington? Let me know in the comments below.

For more information and details regarding the study, head on over to the Times Online. Be safe out there, America.

The Times Online - Texting wihle driving is more dangerous than drink-driving