Risky driving behaviors survey faults social media, email, photos
Results of the eighth annual State Farm distracted driving survey point to continued dangerous activity behind the wheel. The report follows major trends in cellphone use and explores many of the distractions that take eyes, hands and minds off driving.
Nearly all drivers, 91 percent, reported owning a smartphone, and more than half say they use them while driving. Though distracted driving continues to be all too common, the news is not all bad. After several years of steady increases in distracting cellphone activities, only taking pictures and recording videos saw significant increases this year. Survey results: 50 percent talk on a handheld phone 35 percent text while driving 29 percent access the internet while driving 26 percent read email behind the wheel; 21 percent respond 22 percent access social networks 23 percent take pictures; 14 percent record video 93 percent talk to passengers; 23 percent attend to children; 21 percent attend to pets in the car
Drivers also report listening to loud music, eating, speeding and driving tired as other risky behaviors.
Relationship between cellphone use and crashes
The report shows a significant relationship between self-reported rates of cellphone use and selfreported number of crashes. People who indicated they use their cellphones while driving were more likely to have been in a crash compared to those who said they rarely or never use their phones while driving.
Drivers know the risk, but can’t resist
Survey respondents reported using smartphones while driving despite finding them distracting. And despite thinking the behavior increases the likelihood of a crash. When asked why, they provided reasons such as improved efficiency, need to stay in touch, habit, searching for information on the internet, and seeing something they want to share. Reasons for these behaviors: Good use of time Staying in touch with family & friends Helps to stay awake Bored while driving The survey was conducted as part of our ongoing research into highway safety issues. It did not involve any policyholder claim information.