Distracted Driving Statistics: Hand-Held Device Use and Teens
Each year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) releases a report on traffic safety statistics. In September 2016, that report was based on data regarding electronic device usage by drivers during the 2015 calendar year. Here are some of the shocking statistics they recorded involving hand-held device use while driving (which is illegal in most states).
- From 2014 to 2015, the number of drivers caught using their handheld devices stayed roughly the same at 2.2%.
- The greatest increase in handheld device usage while driving was spotted in rural areas and among drivers whose passengers were all at least 8 years of age.
- In the 25-69 age group, the percent of drivers using handheld devices while driving increased from 2.0% to 2.1%.
- In the 18-24 age group, the percent of drivers using handheld devices while driving increased dramatically over the past decade from 0.5% in 2006 to 4.9% in 2015.
What are young drivers doing with those devices? Some are texting or making phone calls. Others are taking selfies. Some are even on social media, live streaming their driving experience. However, this leads to real dangers. The NHTSA also reported that 3,450 people died in fatal accidents due to distracted driving and another 391,000 were injured in crashes due to these risky behaviors.
If You Have Been Injured By a Distracted Driver in Southern California
If you find yourself or a family member injured due to a distracted driver, call the personal injury attorneys at Petrov Law Firm. We can help you to seek compensation for medical bills, lost work, and other damages. To get started on your case, call 619-344-0360 today.
