At LifeSaver Mobile, every month is #DistractedDrivingAwarenessMonth, but in North America, April has been recognized as the official DDAM. So in the spirit of safety … here’s a look at some distracted driving statistics you may not know – yet!
1. Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment, or navigation system.
2. Phone distraction while driving is the most common form of distracted driving. Using a phone while driving can significantly increase the risk of accidents because it is present during every drive. (Source: 57% of at-fault collisions are related directly to mobile phone distraction)
3. Texting is hazardous because it simultaneously involves visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. It’s known as the Triple Threat! This means you are looking at your phone, using your hands to type, and thinking about the message instead of focusing on the road. (Source)
4. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. (Source)
5. Most states have implemented laws banning texting and driving, with penalties increasing for repeat offenders. It’s important to follow these laws and avoid phone use while driving to protect yourself and others on the road. (Source)
6. Using a phone while driving significantly increases the risk of crashes. Studies have shown that texting or talking on the phone while driving can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. (Source)
7. Phone distraction while driving endangers the driver and other road users. It can lead to delayed reaction times, impaired judgment, and an increased likelihood of being involved in a crash. (Source)
If you are looking for ways to prevent phone distraction while driving, please consider:
- For personal drives: use features like “Do Not Disturb While Driving” on your phone, keeping your phone out of reach, and pulling over in a safe location if you need to make a call or send a message. Your focus should always be on the road to ensure everyone’s safety.
- For commercial fleets: using solutions that proactively prevent dangerous behavior in real-time like LifeSaver Mobile.
Cell phone use and phone distraction are addictive behaviors that must be prevented in real-time. You cannot “coach it away” with driver training or “record it away” with dash cams…. you must prevent it altogether with cell phone compliance.
