To Talk or Not to Talk on Cell Phones While Driving
by Steve Spongberg
February 11, 2010
Cell Phone Use While Driving
It is very common to observe a driver talking on a cell phone while operating a vehicle. This is becoming more and more common, but is very dangerous. Many feel that they are able to multi-task and take care of business while driving. Catching up with an old friend or making an appointment is also thought to be acceptable or a good use of time in the car. Listed below are some cell phone facts which may cause one to stop and reconsider talking on the phone next time they are driving a vehicle.
• Using cell phones while driving is a very high risk behavior which can have a significant impact on collisions.
• Drivers who use cell phones are four times more likely to be in a crash while using a cell phone.
• There is NO difference in the distractibility between hand-held and hands-free devices.
• 80% of crashes are related to driver inattention.
• It has been estimated that more than 100 million people use cell phones while driving.
• The annual cost of crashes caused by cell phone use is estimated to be $43 billion.
• Talking to a passenger while driving is significantly safer than talking on a cell phone.
Steve Spongberg
Driver’s Education Teacher
