The risks associated with distracted driving are overblown, and the warning signs are more annoying than helpful, according to a study of young drivers by The Risk Institute at Ohio State University.
Despite this viewpoint, young drivers are among the highest at risk for distracted driving crashes due to the combination of these beliefs and frequent cell phone use while driving (CUWD).
In honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, The Risk Institute has released new research on the factors of drowsiness, speeding, seat belt usage and CUWD.
Key findings from the report include:
- CUWD was the most common dangerous behavior besides speeding; 80% of participants reported CUWD in last 30 days
- CUWD was more common than speeding 10mph+, despite participants rating it as riskier
- CUWD was the only behavior that predicted a higher likelihood of having been in a crash in baseline and posttest
- 70% of participants reported speeding at least half the time; 20% speed 100% of the time
“At The Risk Institute, we’re working to better understand why people drive distracted by analyzing behavioral, institutional and physical causes,” said Phil Renaud, Executive Director, The Risk Institute. “According to our latest study, young drivers believe the risks of distracted driving are overblown and that the warning signs are more annoying than helpful. However, young drivers are among the highest at risk for distracted driving crashes due to the combination of these beliefs and frequent cell phone use while driving (CUWD).
“This research also indicates that CUWD is more common than speeding 10mph+, despite participants rating it as riskier. We’re dedicated to conducting research that will inform solutions while partnering with both legislative authorities and enterprise businesses to curb distracted driving and ensure our roads are safer for all of us.”
The Risk Institute leads a nationwide research initiative to better understand why people drive distracted, looking at the behavioral, institutional and physical causes.
