Using phone while driving claims 33 lives, causes 150 accidents in Gujarat

Gujarat recorded 150 serious road accidents in the past year caused by drivers using mobile phones, resulting in 33 fatalities, 97 serious injuries, and 90 minor injuries, according to state traffic police data.

Officials warn that these figures reflect only reported incidents, while many more accidents likely go unrecorded. Nationally, similar cases claimed 2,884 lives across India in 2024.

Experts caution that even a two-second glance at a phone while driving can prove fatal. A vehicle moving at 40-60 km/h travels about 33 meters in those two seconds, leaving no room to react. The brain also requires a few extra seconds to refocus on the road after a call or notification, increasing crash risks.

Despite a ₹5,000 fine for using a phone while driving, many two wheeler drivers admit they struggle to resist checking messages or calls. 

Experts attribute the trend to factors such as fear of missing out (FOMO), overconfidence, boredom in traffic jams, and mounting work pressure where calls from bosses or clients push drivers to answer immediately. Even hands-free devices do not fully eliminate the danger, as mental distraction slows response times.

Traffic authorities and mental health experts are calling for stronger public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement to curb this rising threat and remind drivers that no call or message is worth a life.