Distracted Driving Causing More Crashes

December 2006

Speeding and driver impairment are already factors in the number of car accidents, but now distracted driving has joined the driving dangers list. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that driver distractions account for 25% of all crashes.

A study conducted by AAA and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that a drivers' likeliness of being in a crash doubles when a driver looks away for two or more seconds. The study used data from 109 drivers in Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia. The drivers were monitored using cameras in the vehicles and “black box” technology. The drivers were observed talking on the phone, putting on make-up, doing crossword puzzles, and reading, just to name a few offenses. And, as more electronic and computer devices are created for use in vehicles, the issue is going to get worse.

In an attempt to reduce accidents, California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and the Washington, D.C. have already banned use of hand-held cell phones. The Pennsylvania State Senate will review their cell phone laws early next year.

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