Why It’s So Important to Realize Dangers of Texting While Driving

According to a recent study by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, 30 percent of teenagers across the country polled said they read a text or email every time they’re behind the wheel. Researchers for the Toyota’s Teen Driver Distraction Study also learned, through phone interviews with teenagers in major metropolitan areas across the country, that 24 percent of them had responded to texts while driving.

Parents here in Central Massachusetts should take these findings very seriously. The good news is that the majority of teens surveys don’t text while driving, here at Westboro Toyota we think it bears an important reminder to talk to your teenagers about safe driving habits.

First up, under Massachusetts’ Safe Driving Law, texting while driving is against the law for everyone, regardless of age. It’s important for everyone to abide by this rule designed to reduce the liklihood of injuries and fatalities on the roadways.

Second, young people should be reminded that here in Massachusetts it’s against the law for a junior operator under the age of 18 to use a cell phone in any capacity while driving.

Third, lead by example. Invest in a hand-free device to free up your hands so they stay on the wheel at all times. Right now Massachusetts is considering legislation that would require the use of a hands-free device for calling. Also, another bill proposes banning any cell phone use by a driver, regardless of age. The legislative landscape may be uncertain, but with similar laws going into effect across the country, it’s likely we could see changes here in the Bay State soon.

Fourth, reward your teenagers’ good behavior! If your teen has demonstrated a commitment to driver and passenger safety, why not consider buying him or her a stylish new or certified pre-owned vehicle? Here at Westboro Toyota, we offer a tremendous inventory on some top-selling favorites, including the 2013 Toyota Corolla, Rav4, Prius and more. Plus, right now, during our Summer Savings Event is still going strong—but hurry deep deals on new Toyota purchases and $0 down leases ends Aug. 5, 2013. 

And, we’ve got a great deal especially for you if you've recently graduated college! If you have obtained your degree within the last two years, Toyota’s College Graduate Rebate program delivers a $750 rebate toward the lease or purchase of select new Toyotas through Toyota Financial Services (TFS).

Stop by Westboro Toyota today to learn more about our Summer Savings Event deals and this great Toyota college graduate rebate.