UNITED STATES – According to an online article at FORBES.COM, drivers are using their cell phones in riskier ways, leading to serious distracted driving accidents.*

A new study released by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) details that drivers are increasingly fiddling with their phones as opposed to talking on them while behind the wheel. Drivers were nearly 60% more likely to be seen using their cellphones to send emails, text, or for purposes other than making a phone call. “The latest data suggest that drivers are using their phones in riskier ways,” said David Kidd, co-author of the study.

While the report did not find that there was an increase in distracted driving in the two years surveyed, years 2014 and 2018, the results were consistent with research finding that drivers are using their cell phones less to talk and more to operate them in other ways.

Research shows that there is a 66% higher fatal automobile accident risk when a driver is controlling a phone. The IIHS estimates that over 800 accident deaths in 2017 could be associated with drivers who used their phones for tasks other than talking.

The report also indicates using a cellphone while driving can impact the way in which drivers process and scan information on the roadway. For instance, the report indicates that drivers typically take their eyes off of the road to use apps, dial a phone number, send texts, and browse the internet, which then diverts their attention from driving entirely.

Other notable distractions while driving include talking with passengers and drinking coffee, which can also divert a driver’s attention from the roadway, sometimes leading to serious or even fatal collisions.

It is well documented that most accidents can be prevented with a little extra care and safety education. Since 1984, Montlick & Associates has been dedicated to keeping children and families safe on the roadway. Our commitment runs deep through our extensive, award-winning public service programs that provide people the information they need to avoid injuries. To learn about our Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign, Child Passenger Safety Programs, Booster Seat Campaign and much more, visit montlick.com and click on “community service,” or simply click here. You can also learn more about one of our newest driver and passenger safety programs by visiting iridesafe.com.

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Source:https://www.forbes.com/sites/tanyamohn/2019/01/25/distracted-driving-worsens-as-drivers-use-phones-in-riskier-ways/#5e7363d1172a