While distracted driving is known to be a danger in Pennsylvania and across the U.S., research strives to delve deeper into the issue to gather information as to who does it, when and why. This has revealed that people who should be the most cautious are taking part in this dangerous activity and put others at risk of debilitating injuries and wrongful death.
One new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia estimates that there are worrisome percentages of parents who are driving with young children in the vehicle while performing various activities on their cellphone. Half talk on their phone; one-third are reading texts; and one in seven are taking part in social media. The ages of the children ranged from 4 to 10.
There were 760 adults in the survey and it had participants from 47 of the 50 states in the union. They were required to be at least 18-years-old to take part and either be a parent or caregiver of a child in the above age range. They must also have driven the older child a minimum of six times in the previous three months. Researchers state that around 25 percent of motor vehicle accidents happen because of a distracted driver. While the study focused on the danger the parents are placing their children in by taking part in these practices, it also places other drivers, pedestrians and anyone on the road at risk.
Fifty-two percent of the respondents used a hands-free device; 47 percent did not. 34 percent said they read texts while driving children; 27 percent sent them. Around 14 percent were using social media. There was a connection between using cellphones behind the wheel and drinking and driving.
Since the injuries and fatalities that can and do happen because of a distracted driver, these studies are important to garner information as to driver behavior and reduce its incidence. Unfortunately, people will continue to take part in these behaviors and cause accidents. Those who have suffered debilitating injuries or lost a loved one must understand their right to seek compensation as they are dealing with high medical bills, lost wages and other problems. A lawyer can help.