Distracted driving a growing problem: study

Nov 24, 2008

Nearly half of Americans consider cell phones the most dangerous driver distraction, yet many continue the behavior, according to a survey conducted by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.

Of 1,503 drivers surveyed for the Columbus, OH-based company's second annual "Driving While Distracted" survey, 81.3 percent admitted to talking on a cell phone while behind the wheel, even though 48 percent said they consider doing so the most dangerous distracted driving behavior. Additional findings show:

• 45.4 percent of respondents have been struck or nearly struck by another vehicle driven by someone talking on a cell phone.
• 40 percent of teens text message while driving.
• More than 70 percent of respondents felt pressure to be available at all times via a cell phone or other electronic device.
• 90 percent of respondents believe distracted driving behavior will get worse.