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Group studies common driver distractions

Aug. 12, 2003

A study prepared by University of North Carolina researchers for the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety revealed nearly all U

A study prepared by University of North Carolina researchers for the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety revealed nearly all U.S. drivers are distracted at some point behind the wheel.

A study prepared by University of North Carolina researchers for the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety revealed nearly all U

A study prepared by University of North Carolina researchers for the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety revealed nearly all U.S. drivers are distracted at some point behind the wheel. Surprisingly, cell-phone use was not among the top distractions.

The experiment used cameras placed inside the cars of 70 volunteers to observe driving behavior. Results showed that reaching and leaning inside the car is the most common distraction--more than 97% of drivers do it. The study also found 91.4% manipulate the car radio; 71.4% eat and drink; and 77.1% talk with a passenger. Only 30% use cell phones while driving.

AAA is calling on states to include instructions on dealing with distractions in driver's license manuals. According to AAA, just five states--Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Virginia and Wisconsin--dedicate a section to the topic in their manuals.