Phones: They buzz. They ding. They flash. They SCREAM for attention like a hungry toddler. And when you’re behind the wheel, they somehow become extra needy.

You’ll be cruising along when your phone lights up in the cupholder. Maybe it’s a message you’ve been waiting for or a meme in the group chat you really want to reply to before you forget your punchline. Perhaps you’ve just remembered that one email you forgot to send, or you have a genius thought you’re 99% sure you’ll forget by the next robot.

And just like that – you’re typing…

But here’s the truth: even the most responsible, well-intentioned drivers can underestimate how dangerous texting while driving actually is (even that “quick reply”). Our brains cannot multitask while navigating swerving taxis, potholes, kids arguing in the back seat, speed traps, or the unpredictable nature of SA roads. This is why texting while driving remains one of the most dangerous habits worldwide and could be the reason why your car insurance claim is denied (more on that later).

RELATED: SCARY ROAD ACCIDENT STATS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Why Is Texting and Driving Dangerous?

Texting while driving isn’t just a distraction. It’s three distractions happening at the exact same time.

1. Manual Distraction

Your hands leave the steering wheel to hold your phone. Even a one-handed grip reduces your ability to correct, brake, or steer suddenly.

2. Visual Distraction

Your eyes leave the road. Studies show that reading or sending a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. At just under 90 km/h, that’s like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.

3. Cognitive Distraction

This is the big one. You may be looking forward, but your mind isn’t. This phenomenon is called “inattentional blindness.” You see the road, but your brain doesn’t process what’s there.

South African Texting and Driving Statistics

South Africa continues to rank amongst the countries with the highest road crash rates in the world, and distracted driving, especially cellphone use, plays a significant role in these statistics.

According to the International Transport Forum (ITF), approximately 25% of road crashes in South Africa involve mobile phone use while driving.

MasterDrive reports that 60%–80% of local car accidents are linked to distracted driving behaviour in general, emphasising just how common and deadly split attention on the road can be.

The numbers paint a sobering picture:

  • 25% of vehicle crashes are connected to drivers using their phones.

  • 52% of drivers in accidents admit they were distracted by adjusting or playing with the radio.

  • 32% of accidents involve a driver eating or drinking.

  • Reaching for an object makes a driver 8 times more likely to crash.

  • Responding to a message takes your attention away for an average of 5 seconds — long enough at highway speed to travel a full football field without looking.

Studies conducted by the UK Transport Research Laboratory showed that the risk of a crash or near-crash increases 2,8× when dialling, 1,3× when talking, and 1,4× when reaching for something — all behaviours that happen constantly on South African roads.

Together, these statistics tell a clear story: even a few seconds of distraction can drastically increase your risk of a crash, injury, or worse.

Is It Illegal to Text and Drive?

Yes. Using your phone while driving is illegal in South Africa, even if it’s “just one quick message.”

Penalties vary by city, but you can expect:

  • Fines of R500+

  • Phone confiscation in severe cases

  • Up to R5 000 to retrieve a confiscated device

  • Possible licence suspension

  • Criminal charges if an accident results in injury or death.

But truthfully? The real consequence isn’t the fine. It’s what can happen in those five distracted seconds.

RELATED: SOUTH AFRICAN DRIVING LAWS

Consequences of Texting and Driving

Let’s talk about the ripple effect of that “quick reply.” Even for careful drivers, texting behind the wheel can lead to:

1. Accidents

From minor bumper dents to life-changing collisions.

2. Injuries & Fatalities

Distracted-driving accidents often happen at full speed because the driver doesn’t brake in time. They could lead to injuries to you, your passengers, and innocent road users.

3. Legal Consequences

Fines, penalties, or even imprisonment (a R1 000 WhatsApp message is the worst ROI).

4. Insurance Issues

If the cause of the accident is found to be distracted driving, your insurance claim could be rejected, or your premiums could be increased.

5. Guilt & Emotional Trauma

Knowing the accident could have been prevented is a weight no one wants to carry.

How To Break Up With Dangerous Texting Habits

Breaking the habit isn’t about willpower. It’s about building systems that protect you from temptation. Here’s how to break with dangerous texting habits (gently):

1. Put Your Phone Out of Reach

Glove compartment. Bag. Back seat. Anywhere but your lap.

2. Use “Do Not Disturb While Driving”

Most phones have this feature built in. Your phone won’t beep.

3. Use Smart Apps

Some automatically block notifications when your car is in motion.

4. Pull Over When Needed

If a message is genuinely urgent, stop safely before responding.

5. Lead by Example

If you’re a parent, older sibling, or caregiver, your habits become someone else’s “normal.” Drive like someone’s watching, because they are.

You can’t text and drive, but you can park and insure

You’re not alone if you’ve been tempted to text and drive. It’s a very human impulse in a very connected world. But here’s the good news: Every safe choice creates safer roads. Every message you save for later is a moment of protection. For you, your passengers, and every person sharing that stretch of road with you.

The truth is simple:
No meme, message, notification, DM, emoji, email, or missed call is worth a life. Not yours. Not anyone else’s. Safe and Smart driving is a habit worth keeping.

And if you’re looking to back that up with a motor insurer that actually has your back, dotsure.co.za is here. When life throws the unexpected your way, that’s where expert cover steps in. If you ever need help finding the right car insurance, just give us a shout (But not while driving. Even if your car can parallel park itself.)

Stay present. Stay safe. Stay alive. And Name Your PriceTM for car insurance.