Monday, 14 November 2005
Do Cell Phones Really Make Bad Drivers?
Do yourself (and everyone else) a favor – keep the cell phone off when you’re on the road!
As cell phones have become a ubiquitous part of life, the debate over whether they impair driving ability any more than other activity, such as talking to another passenger, has become a perennial hot topic.
The risks cell phones pose are pretty obvious: many models require you to take your eyes off the road to dial, and getting involved in a phone conversation distracts you from how well you’re driving.
A new study that came out this June found that cell phone use causes more accidents than any other distraction. And hands-free doesn’t mean risk free. Several recent studies have shown that drivers using hands-free cell phones are at just as much risk as the hand-held users, and they take more time to brake.
Several states and cities are taking the cell phone debate seriously, and have passed laws banning cell phone use while driving, with violations carrying hefty fines of $100 - $200.
Even if your city or state has been slow to ban cell phone use when driving – get in the habit of leaving yours off when driving. Taking every precaution is the best way to prevent accidents which can not only cause injury and damage, but are a quick way to raise your insurance premiums.
For more information on cell phone use and driving, read the excellent report provided by the Insurance Information Institute.
Technorati Tags: Auto Insurance
