Parents in America are less likely to be distracted by technology when driving with children, according to a new survey.
The study, from the National Safety Council and the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association (CVVFA) Emergency Responder Safety Institute, found that parents rank texts, phone calls and children in the back seat as the top three driving distractions.
However the survey – released ahead of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month – also found parents are less likely to be distracted by technology when driving with their children in the car.
In the survey of 1,000 drivers ages 25 years and older who drive with children, nearly two-thirds of respondents admitted to regularly or occasionally programing a navigation system while driving alone; that risky behavior dropped 20 percent when children were in the car.
Similarly, more than half of parents surveyed admitted to regularly or occasionally talking on the phone while driving, which dropped 13 percent when children were along for the ride.
Parents also ranked the top deterrents to phone use while driving, which included having your child tell you they felt scared when you used your phone, having a loved one injured or killed, or being involved in a crash yourself.
“The harsh reality is that thousands lose their lives each year in crashes where distracted driving plays a role,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC president and CEO.
“We should all drive as though we have a loved one in our car on every trip, every time.”
Distracted Driving Awareness Month, observed every April, raises awareness and educates about the importance of being attentive behind the wheel.
