More and more people are getting into serious car accidents because a driver was texting. Some states have passed total bans of texting while driving, while others, like Missouri, have passed only partial bans making it illegal for anyone under the age of 22. Even still texting while driving is commonplace–and deadly.

Statistical reports claim that 6,000 deaths were directly caused by distracted driving and another half million people have been injured. All distracted driving is risky, but why is texting so much more hazardous?

Just talking on the phone will definitely cause distracted driving. It limits the amount they are able to hear, but more importantly it causes the driver to divide their attention between the road and their conversation. However much their mind is distracted, though, the driver will still be looking at the road. Texting while driving is different. Not only does it distract the driver’s mental attention, but it forces the driver to completely ignore the road and, instead, to stare at their tiny cell phone screen.

How is it possible to stop unnecessary fatalities and injuries from drivers texting? A good first step is to follow Oprah’s example. Her No Phone Zone campaign asks drivers across the country to take a personal pledge not to text while driving. Without anti-texting legislation, this might be the extent of what we are able to do. However, that doesn’t mean that some states have passed their own legislation banning texting while driving, or that all states in the future might ban it entirely. Personal responsibility will always be foremost.

Some states, such as Missouri, have laws that make it harder to get a car accident claim because of texting while driving. It’s not illegal to text and drive if your over 21, but if you get in an accident it could be considered negligence. Circumstances like this could be called negligent–a solid ground for an injury case.

The sad part, if you are in fact injured in a car accident caused by another driver texting, is the insurance adjuster will do everything in their power to get you to admit fault. The insurance adjuster’s job is to look for ways to avoid paying you. This is why it is always important to consider your legal options when injured. A car accident attorney may be able to fight the insurance company for you—they might be able to get you help with your medical bills.

Before you do anything, the best thing is to be prepared for the worst with a solid base of information. Always look for a lawyer who will provide you with free information on how to best handle a car accident. After that, remember not to text when you drive. Be safe!