Distracted driving persists as problem on nation’s roads
Despite repeated warnings from government officials and safety groups, distracted driving continues to be a problem. Research shows that the problem goes beyond cellphone use.
About 15% of drivers acknowledged participating in sexual activity while driving.
New research by insurance comparison website The Zebra reveals that motorists continue to engage in distracted driving. In addition to nearly two-thirds of those surveyed admitting to using their phone while driving, motorists are finding more creative ways to engage in distracted driving:
- One in four drivers have put on or taken off clothing while driving.
- One in seven have applied makeup or deodorant.
- Nearly 15% have engaged in sexual activity while driving.
- More than 12% have hit a passenger while driving.
The top 10 distracted driving activities:
- Read something on phone or other device (58%).
- Texting (56%).
- Picking nose (47%).
- Eating a full meal (36%).
- Kissing someone (27%).
- Putting on or taking off clothing (27%).
- Cleaning dashboard or windows (25%).
- Brushing hair (17.5%).
- Applying makeup or deodorant (15%).
- Engaging in sexual activity (15%).
According to the study, people find ways to justify using a smartphone while driving. Nearly 82% said it is OK if they use a speakerphone or a hands-free system. More than 64% find it OK to use a phone for direction and navigation. LL