Each year, distracted drivers cause a significant number of traffic accidents, leading to millions of dollars in damages and thousands of deaths across the country. The widespread use of mobile devices like smartphones and tablets has been a major distraction for many drivers, who find it hard to ignore them while on the road.
AAA recently conducted a survey to understand how often drivers use mobile phones while driving. From June 6 to 28, they asked Americans aged 16 and older about their habits regarding answering calls, making calls, and sending or reading text messages while driving.
The survey found that most drivers in the U.S. see distracted driving as a major problem. According to data from CBS New York, 88% of respondents said talking on the phone while driving is dangerous. Furthermore, 95% are worried about drivers who text or email while behind the wheel, which is even higher than the 93% who worry about drunk drivers. A large majority (87%) support laws banning activities like reading, writing, or sending text messages and emails while driving. About half of them also support laws that ban any cell phone use by drivers.
Interestingly, CBS New York reported that 68% of those surveyed admitted to using a mobile device while driving in the past month. Of these, 68% said they only use their phone when stopped at an intersection and are more likely to answer calls than make them. Around 35% confessed to reading or writing texts while driving, mostly at stoplights, and they were more likely to read than send texts while on the move.
But mobile devices aren’t the only distractions. Other activities like eating, drinking, applying makeup, changing radio stations, smoking, and talking with passengers can also divert a driver’s attention and lead to dangerous situations on the road.
A study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed that in 2009, nearly 20% of car accidents causing injuries involved some form of distracted driving. According to the Sacramento Bee, around 5,500 people died in accidents involving distracted drivers, making up 16% of all traffic-related fatalities that year.
Maintaining a clean driving record is essential for keeping auto insurance premiums affordable. Traffic infractions like speeding tickets, reckless driving, DWI, or using a mobile phone while driving can cause insurance rates to increase significantly. Drivers looking for the best rates should compare car insurance quotes online.
AAA’s website offers ten tips for staying focused while driving:
– Plan your journey in advance.
– Secure all electronic devices before you start driving.
– Make sure kids and pets are ready for the trip.
– Avoid eating or drinking while driving.
– Keep all belongings secure and out of sight.
– Ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
– Dress appropriately before setting off.
– Keep your mind focused on driving.
– Reflect on your driving behavior from a third-person perspective.
– Use new technology to improve your driving skills.