As agents we are frequently asked "why does my auto insurance rate increase every year?!" While this is a complicated answer, a common thread in this discussion is always distracted driving. Cellphone use and car technology are the primary causes of distracted driving and despite the marketing efforts of insurance companies and departments of transportation, there is a continuing increase in distracted driving related accidents. Customer don't realize that the continual increase in accidents can affect their rate whether they have had an accident or not. Continued education about the importance of avoiding distracted driving is key. Here are a few tips to help you stay focused on safe driving (click on numbered links for access to NHTSA's informational handouts).
Using a cellphone or other technology
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,450 people were killed in distracted driving-related vehicle accidents.[2] That means 9% of all fatal crashes in 2016 involved distracted driving, and cellphone usage contributed to 14% of those crashes involving a fatality for that same year.[3]
These statistics suggest it may be best to avoid cellphone usage when driving. It also may not be legal in your state to even hold your phone while driving. Utilize hands-free options for making calls. Better yet, pull over to talk; any phone usage can result in reduced concentration on driving.[4] Taking your eyes off of the road to look up a contact or dial a number takes seconds, but you can travel a good distance in that timeframe.
Age is a factor, too
Using technology behind the wheel is a concern with younger drivers, who are involved in more accidents; the CDC reports that drivers ages 16–19 have a higher risk of vehicle accidents than any other age group.[5] Adults and teens under the age of 20 are involved in more crashes related to distractions and more fatalities, too.[6] Many phones offer settings that turn off notifications while in the car. Use of these features or apps may help cut down distracted and dangerous driving.
Consider these facts before using technology behind the wheel:
- 481,000 drivers use phones behind the wheel during the daytime[7]
- Texting for five seconds is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded if you're going 55 miles per hour[8]
The NHTSA reports that it's not possible to drive safely if the task doesn't have your full attention. Paying attention to any potential distraction can increase your risk of an accident.[9]
Other distractions
Things many people do in the car every day are actually distractions that can put you at risk for accidents.[10] While you might think of cellphones and texting as the main problems, other behaviors are similarly risky. Eating while driving not only distracts your mind from the road, but it may also cause you to drive with one hand or remove both hands from the wheel. Helping your kids with something in the backseat is a task every parent has probably done at least once, but it's still a distraction.
Preventing distractions
Remember that driving is serious business. Vehicles weigh thousands of pounds. When operating at even modest speeds, the physics of a collision can be devastating. If you can't stay off your phone, use an app or phone feature to turn off notifications. If you need to make a call or text, pull over. When using your maps, review the route before heading out to make sure you have familiarity and position your phone in an eye-level holder. Avoid eating in the car. Remember, many states now have laws against cellphone usage and texting and driving. Stay safe, and save yourself money by following these laws to avoid fines.
Staying safe on the road is easier when you create a plan and utilize helpful tips. Avoid distracted driving and stay safe on the roads.
Article Source: Nationwide Insurance: blog.nationwide.com/texting-while-driving-statistics