Tried And True Attorneys Standing Up For The Injured Since 1965

Photo of Craig R. Fishman
Photo of Craig R. Fishman

Tried And True Attorneys Standing Up For The Injured Since 1965

Study says that more people are using phones while driving

On Behalf of | Apr 4, 2018 | Car Accidents |

More drivers in New Jersey and across the United States are regularly talking on their cell phones while behind the wheel, according to a new survey by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The study, which was released on March 29, asked 2,613 licensed drivers about their cellphone habits while behind the wheel over the past 30 days.

Nearly 50 percent of the survey’s participants admitted to talking on a hand-held phone while driving. This represented a 46 percent increase over the results of a similar study conducted in 2013. Furthermore, almost 45 percent of drivers in the new study reported reading an email or text message while driving and just under 35 percent said they had sent an email or text whilst behind the wheel.

Despite the alarming results of the study, 78 percent of the respondents said they thought texting while driving was dangerous. Just over 40 percent said they supported laws banning cellphone use while behind the wheel.

Studies have shown that talking on the cellphone while driving increases the risk of crashing by 400 percent. Meanwhile, those who text and drive are up to eight times more likely to become involved in car accidents. Victims of distracted driving-related car crashes have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation for their losses. Possible damages awarded in such a suit could include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and property loss. New Jersey car crash victims could learn more about their legal rights by reaching out to legal counsel.

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