Distractions common cause of teens’ car accidents

A new study found that distracted driving is more dangerous for teen drivers than previously thought. Researchers examined video footage in teens’ vehicles to see what caused car accidents involving teens.

The researchers reported that many of the teenagers tried to multitask while driving, which caused them to become distracted and get into a car accident or leave the road.

The study found that 60 percent of the accidents were caused by distractions. This is a much higher rate that previously reported by government agencies in the past and highlights the serious risks teens face behind the wheel.

What types of distractions led to car accidents or vehicles leaving the road? According to the study, cellphone use contributed to 12 percent of accidents while teenagers talking to other passengers contributed to 15 percent.

The use of electronic devices, like cellphones, while driving is very dangerous for teens and adults. However, many drivers still use them despite the risk of getting into an accident. Even though many drivers understand that using a cellphone while driving increases the chance of crashing, they still do it.

This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. Safety groups continue to highlight the dangers of cellphone use and distracted driving, and legislators across the country continue to call for stricter laws to prevent distracted driving.

All drivers need to be aware of the risks they face behind the wheel. Even though many of us think we can handle multitasking while driving, we simply cannot. Using a cellphone or having a conversation with passengers can distract us from the road and cause a serious accident. We all need to take steps to prevent distractions and putting down the cellphone is a good start.

Source: The New York Times, “Car Crash Videos Highlight Risk of Multitasking With Phones,” Matt Richtel, March 25, 2015