Today's News by Jack Nerad for Driving Today

Cell Phone Users and Car Safety

Monday, August 23, 2010

Cell phone use in cars is continually hammered in the media as the war against distracted driving builds steam. But according to the latest study from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) -- which, of course, counts among its members many cell phone manufacturers -- most drivers who use cell phones consider safety their No. 1 priority when in an automobile.

The report found that 22 percent of drivers with cell phones never use their cell phones while driving. Other cell phone users will only use devices that they believe will limit the distractions caused by phone use. Some 29 percent reported they use a speakerphone built into the cell phone; another 22 percent use a wireless Bluetooth headset; 10 percent use a wired earphone or headset; and 5 percent use a wireless Bluetooth speakerphone accessory for their car.  

Distracted driving is a major safety issue, and cell phones are just one potential distraction in a litany that runs all the way from talking with a friend to applying makeup or eating a cheeseburger while behind the wheel. We can all be distracted at times, but the CEA noted that in-car technology has made huge leaps and bounds to be safer and more-user friendly. One key advance is the use of voice-recognition technology, which can help you keep your eyes on the road where they should be. Not only do Americans spend time nearly every day in their cars, but the typical individual spends about 16.5 hours a week in his or her vehicle. So safe driving should be of utmost importance to all Americans.

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