New York Times Topics: Texting and Driving »

Courtney is positive that she was wearing her seatbelt. Perhaps that is why her head and neck – thankfully -- were fine. Perhaps that is also why her midsection was so violently impacted, as the force of the rollover twisted her limber cheerleader's body around and out of the car and into a ditch along the side of the road.

A poor decision nearly cost Matt his life. But state-of-the-art neurosurgical and neurocritical care, dedicated therapists, and family support gave him a chance to start over again.

Tim was outdoors doing what he liked best, working with equipment and with his hands. It was a pleasant July afternoon. The family had just installed an above-ground swimming pool, and Tim was hooking up electricity for the pool filter and lighting.