In a tragic incident that underscores the dangers of distracted driving, 32-year-old Courtney Sanford lost her life in a car crash just seconds after posting a status update on Facebook. On a Thursday morning in April 2014, Sanford was driving along Business Interstate 85 in High Point, North Carolina, when her vehicle crossed the median and collided head-on with a truck hauling a recycling bin. The crash occurred at 8:34 a.m., mere moments after Sanford had posted, “The happy song makes me so HAPPY,” on her Facebook page at 8:33 a.m.
Investigators believe that Sanford was using her phone to post selfies and update her status while driving, leading to the fatal distraction. High Point Police Department spokesperson Lt. Chris Weisner remarked that the incident serves as a real-life example of the consequences of texting and driving, stating, “In a matter of seconds, a life was over just so she could notify some friends that she was happy. It’s really not worth it.”
The driver of the truck, 73-year-old John Wallace Thompson, was not injured in the collision. Authorities found no evidence of alcohol, drugs, or excessive speed contributing to the accident. Sanford’s death has since been cited in public safety campaigns highlighting the risks associated with using mobile devices while driving.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of focusing solely on driving when behind the wheel.