A newly released study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is suggesting that
distracted driving among teen motorists may be a much more significant problem than previously
thought. The study - which was released just in time for April’s
Distracted Driving Awareness Month - was based on video recordings from
thousands of cameras mounted inside of vehicles driven by teens.
Here are some key points about the study:
- AAA researchers analyzed over 6,000 videos from cameras mounted inside
of vehicles. These cameras provided researchers a view of drivers and
their behavior behind the wheel, as well as a view of the roadway and
outside conditions through the windshield.
After examining the videos, researchers found that driver distraction played
a role in close to
60% of moderate to severe
car accidents. This is
more than 4 times the rate of official estimates based on police reports.
- The foundation noted a wide range of distractions exhibited by teen drivers,
including text messaging, using a smart phone, adjusting the radio, and
personal grooming. Talking to passengers in the vehicle was cited as the
most common form of distraction.
The study and accompanying videos of teen drivers have drawn nation attention
from parents and lawmakers. They also lend credibility and insight to
statistics that show auto accidents as the number one cause of preventable
death among U.S. teenagers.
Researchers at the AAA Foundation are hoping that the study will prompt
states to pass tougher laws regulating the use of cellphones behind the
wheel, as well as passenger restrictions for newly licensed teen drivers.
At Kelley/Uustal, our Fort Lauderdale car accident attorneys have fought
for many victims and families whose lives were changed as a result of
distracted drivers. We’d like to remind everyone about the importance
of avoiding distractions when behind the wheel, and that our firm is always
available to help accident victims and their loved ones.
View the video below to see distracted teens moments before a crash.