Despite the fact that people in Georgia and across the country know that it is dangerous to drive while texting or otherwise distracted, almost 80 percent of Americans continue to report that they chat on the phone while driving. In addition, over 30 percent admit that they have narrowly avoided a car accident due to their own distraction. Further, many drivers are expected to remain in touch with their employers even while behind the wheel.
The 2019 Travelers Risk Index surveyed over 2,000 Americans about their driving behavior in order to identify common risks. It found that 44 percent of drivers type texts or emails while behind the wheel, a major distraction as it removes the eyes and mind from the road and hands from the wheel. In addition, 23 percent of respondents admitted to using social media while driving and 15 percent confessed to online shopping behind the wheel. Another 22 percent of respondents said that they recorded videos while driving. Widespread public awareness campaigns have been dedicated to the dangers of distracted driving, and many states have implemented laws forbidding different types of distraction.
Nevertheless, 13 percent said it would be difficult to stop reading texts and emails while operating a car, and 11 percent said it would be difficult to stop typing texts while driving. Five percent even said that they would find it hard to stop shopping online behind the wheel.
Distracted driving can carry a significant cost, as thousands of people are injured or even killed each year in motor vehicle accidents linked to the behavior. People who have been injured in a crash caused by a distracted or otherwise negligent driver can consult with a personal injury lawyer about their options for seeking compensation.