Many New York drivers recognize the risks of distracted driving even as they engage in the same dangerous behaviors, according to the results of a study produced by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The findings from the survey, which was conducted in tandem with the yearly Traffic Safety Culture Index, indicate that the number of drivers who say they regularly speak on a handheld mobile phone behind the wheel has grown 46 percent since 2013. However, at the same time, 88 percent of the survey participants noted their severe concerns about distracted driving in the United States.
The survey, which aims to measure common attitudes and driving practices related to roadway safety, questioned 2,613 licensed drivers aged 16 and older. They were asked about their own behavior behind the wheel in the past 30 days. Almost half of the respondents said they had spoken on a handheld mobile phone while driving, and nearly 45 percent admitted to reading emails or texts. Another 35 percent of the participants said they had recently sent a text or email from behind the wheel.
Even after admitting to their own behaviors, 58 percent of the individuals who were surveyed said that talking on the phone while driving could be seriously dangerous while 78 percent said that texting while driving is a major concern. These concerns are backed up by statistics. People who talk on a phone while behind the wheel are four times more apt to get into a car accident, and individuals who text and drive are eight times likelier to crash.
The survey’s results point to a widespread awareness of the hazards of distracted driving. However, they also indicate that negligent driving continues to occur on a frequent basis. Car accidents can lead to severe injuries and lifelong disabilities. People who have been injured in a crash as a result of another person’s dangerous driving may face expensive bills. A personal injury lawyer can help accident victims seek compensation for the damages they suffered.
