The distracted driving epidemic just keeps getting worse. Wait ‘til you see some of the latest statistics — they’re enough to make you rethink your trip to the grocery store this evening:
• 1/3 of all U.S. auto accidents now involve a cell phone (either talking or texting), according to a new report from the National Safety Council.
• Talking is still deadlier than texting. Talking on a cell phone caused 1.2 million wrecks in 2013, while texting caused 341,000. This is concerning because, while Americans are increasingly aware of the dangers of texting, merely talking on a phone is still widely regarded as an acceptable practice.
• Drivers who talk on the phone while driving are four times likelier to crash than those who don’t.
• At any given time during daylight, 9% of drivers are talking on a cell phone.
• At any given time, 1.7% of drivers are using a phone for something other than talking (such as texting, Tweeting, opening apps, etc.).
• Texting while driving increases the likelihood of crashing by up to 23 times. This latest finding, reported by Business Insider, corroborates similar studies from the past few years.
• Phone-related crashes have increased for each of the last three years.
Sadly, despite all we’ve learned about the incredibly real dangers of distracted driving, roadway behavior continues to move along a downward trend.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an accident involving a cell phone, the experienced Phoenix personal injury lawyers can help.
We offer free consultations and don’t charge for our services unless you win. Give us a call right away to learn more. Our attorneys are here for you.
