Insurance agent gives program on texting

Did you know that 28 percent of all traffic accidents involve drivers using cell phones and texting? And texting while driving increases the risk of a crash 23 times over non-distracted driving? That is higher than driving while intoxicated!

Students of Van Wert High School learned these facts and other information last Tuesday. Eric Hurless of Stahl Stoller Meyer Insurance Center, who is also a 2002 VWHS graduate, gave a presentation sponsored by Auto-Owners Insurance entitled W82TXT (for non-texters out there, that means “wait to text”).

The presentation discussed the dangers of texting while driving and included a video of real-life stories involving death and disablement due to texting. “This is a huge issue right now with drivers, young and old,” said Hurless.

“Our goal as insurance professionals is not just to help protect people’s livelihoods, but also to educate the public about dangers that are present in everyday life. This is one of those dangers.”

Each student was also provided with a brochure and those over 16 years old received a thumb band reminding them to W82TXT.

Hurless stated that anyone who would like more information regarding the W82TXT program or would like to know more ways to protect their youthful drivers can contact him at 419.232.4776 or email him at ehurless@ssm-insurance.com.