Study offers proof that texting and teen driving is prevalent

June 04, 2013

A recent study on distracted driving is potential new proof that texting while driving in the United States remains a serious problem--particularly for teens.

The study showed that teens are texting behind the wheel and actually admit to the behavior. While the results don't quite reveal whether teens realize their actions are dangerous and lead to car accidents, it did show proof that more is needed to combat the growing problem of texting behind the wheel.

The study

The study looked at information from the 2011 U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System results. The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, or YRBSS as it's known, monitors different types of risky behaviors that result in death or disability of young adults. Alcohol, drug use and behaviors that "contribute to unintentional injuries or violence" such as texting while driving, or TWD, are among those examined.

Specific results

Out of the number examined, 42.7 percent of teens actually admitted that they had TWD at least once within the previous month.

(Teens that admitted to TWD also admitted to other types of high-risk behavior like drinking and driving, drinking one or more drinks in one sitting, using tanning salons, and engaging in unprotected sex.)

Additionally, the study showed that males admitted to TWD more than females. Approximately 45.7 percent of males reported to have texted behind the wheel versus 39.7 percent of females. Also, teens aged 15 years of age admitted to texting more than teens aged 18 years of age and older.

Tackling the problem

This study does not come as a surprise to many. Teens have a predisposition to engage in risk-taking behavior. And, with the prevalence of mobile device usage, they have a heighted risk of getting into an auto accident.

State legislatives have taken measures to mitigate the risks. Many have passed laws restricting or even prohibiting the use of mobile devices behind the wheel for teen drivers. To date, the District of Columbia and 40 states including the state of Nevada have banned text messaging for individuals behind the wheel. The state of Nevada has also banned the use of hand-held devices for all drivers.

And, according to study results, these laws are actually making a difference. Although the margin wasn't huge, the results showed that the percentage of teens TWD from the study in states that have passed TWD regulations was less than teens TWD from states will less restrictive laws.

However, despite, the positive actions, it's evident more is still needed to combat the problem.

Article provided by Eglet Wall LLP
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