With the proliferation of cell phones and text messaging as a main form of communication for teenagers, the nonprofit National Safety Council (NSC) is highlighting the growing use of electronic devices while driving as a major concern.
A recent survey of cell phone users by Vlingo found that some 26 percent admitted to having sent text messages while behind the wheel. That rises to almost 60 percent of those aged 16-19 and 49 percent of people aged 20-29.
Drivers talking on cell phones is even more widespread – NSC estimates that 100 million Americans use their phones while driving each day.
These statistics are alarming, but recent research published by NSC may explain the phenomenon. According to a study published in NSC’s Journal of Safety Research, drivers tend to overestimate their driving skills and underestimate their distraction caused by other activities while they drive.
NSC president and CEO Janet Froetscher identified cell phone use while driving as one of America’s most urgent traffic safety issues.
Cell phone use while driving contributes to 6 percent of crashes, according to NSC estimates. That works out to 636,000 crashes, 330,000 injuries, 12,000 serious injuries and 2,600 deaths each year. The same research put the annual financial toll of cell phone-related crashes at $43 billion.
Hands-free devices do not make cell phones any safer for driving, Froetscher said. NSC research shows that "the principle risk is the cognitive distraction," she said.
In January NSC became the first national organization to call for a total ban on cell phone use while driving. As part of its National Safety Month campaign in June, the organization is offering a free online course for parents about the risks teen drivers face.
Through this two-hour online program, parents will learn how to reinforce basic driving skills and good decision-making that can help teens become safe and responsible drivers. Registration is free June 1-7 only.
