Despite Increases in Deaths, Public Less Concerned About Distracted Driving

A new survey conducted by AAA shows that Americans are becoming less concerned about distracted driving techniques among other motorists on the road, even as the number of fatalities caused by such behavior is increasing annually.

The survey shows many Americans identifying certain behaviors, including texting and emailing while driving, as very dangerous or even unacceptable, yet many of those same Americans admit to engaging in identical activities within the last month. The overarching theme seems to be that drivers are able to recognize dangerous behavior but that drivers believe that they should be allowed to engage in those actions anyway. The current thought among the majority of those on the roads is that it is acceptable for them personally to be distracted but that other drivers should always avoid distractions.

Nationally, traffic deaths in 2012 increased by about 5.3 percent, the first increase in seven years. Despite this increase, the number of drivers that considered drunk driving to be a serious threat decreased 11 percent between 2009 and 2012. During the same three year period, the number of drivers that said driving after drinking was completely unacceptable decreased six percent, from 95 percent to 89 percent. With 89 percent of drivers surveyed responding so negatively to driving under the influence, it may surprise some that 14 percent of those same drivers admitted to getting behind the wheel within the previous month when their blood alcohol levels were likely at or above the legal limit.

Fewer drivers believed that running a red light was completely unacceptable when the driver had an opportunity, from 77 percent in 2009 down to 70 percent in 2012. Thirty-eight percent of those surveyed admitted to running a red light within the last month. Surveyed drivers reported that speeding more than 15 miles an hour over a posted limit was more likely to be unacceptable in a residential area than on a highway, showing a difference in attitude depending on the type of road driven. One of the biggest decreases reported was in the dangers perceived by drowsy drivers. While 71 percent of those surveyed reported drowsy driving as a serious threat in 2009, only 46 percent thought the same in 2012.

Accidents occur on Phoenix roads every day, claiming hundreds of lives each year. Yet drivers seem less concerned each year about many of the activities that lead to so many accidents. With less concern and less awareness of driving hazards, accidents will continue to occur.

 

 

If a driver’s negligence causes an accident that leaves you injured, you may have the right to bring a legal claim. The Phoenix car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. will provide you with a free telephone consultation to help you understand your options and legal rights. We are standing by 24 hours a day to take your call at (602) 819-5191 and there is no obligation on your part just by speaking with us. Call us today and let us help you on your path to recovery.

Prior Blog Entries:

Fire Truck Struck by SUV in Phoenix, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 20, 2013.

Motorcyclist Arrested After Driving 114 Miles Per Hour in Glendale, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 16, 2013.

Resources:

AAA: Public less worried about dangerous driving, by Joan Lowy, Associated Press/myfoxPhoenix.com, published August 22, 2013.