45°
Cell phones are the culprits topping the list of driver distractions, but that list is a lengthy one. The Governor's Highway Safety Association just issued a report that analyzes more than just cell phone use. Researchers studied everything from how often drivers' attention shifts from the road to those specific items drawing their attention.
It seems drivers are distracted almost half of the time they're behind the wheel by many things, from the presence of other passengers to fiddling with the sound and navigation systems and climate control, to grooming and eating. Additionally, in 80 percent of crashes, drivers were found to be looking away from the road at the time of the incident.
But cell phones are the kings of distraction and pose the greatest danger to drivers. The study found that drivers are almost four times as likely to crash while using a handheld phone as those who refrain from talking altogether while driving.
The study recommends states use rumble strips on the sides and in centers of roadways to help drivers become more aware of their immediate surroundings. The study also says there is no evidence that laws banning cell phone use while driving have any impact on driver behavior.
Do you turn off your cell phone when you drive? Please let me know. Thank you.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Norwalk and receive free news updates.
