Counterpoint - given that people will always text and drive, the auto makes the task slightly safer.
I'm assuming you don't drive manual. It's just not possible to drive stick and text because your right hand is constantly busy
My first car was a manual, and several cars since then. I can assure you not only is it possible to drive stick and text, it is possible to concurrently drive stick, text with T9 word, adjust the radio, and put fire sauce on a chalupa while it's snowing at night.
The trick is to be an idiot teenager.
LOL! Ok you got me there. Idiot teenagers can do just about anything provided it's stupid enough!