Everyone knows that texting and driving is not safe and can lead to car accidents. But a new survey shows that people still do it anyway.
Texting and Driving Survey
A recently released survey from AT&T Inc. concluded that 98 percent of motorists (1,004 U.S adults were surveyed) who text while driving were aware of the dangers. And three-quarters of those 98% admitted to texting while driving, despite laws against texting and driving. Two-thirds of that same group said they have read text messages while at a red light or stop signs. And more than a quarter said they have sent texts while behind the wheel. And more than a quarter of the surveyed motorists believe they “can easily do several things at once, even while driving.”
Attitude and Behavior Behind Texting and Driving
According to David Greenfield, founder of The Center for Internet and Technology Addiction (who consulted with AT&T on the survey) the survey shows a discrepancy between motorist’s attitudes and behaviors. Reasons for texting and driving include these reasons:
- 43% of the drivers want to “stay connected” to friends, family and work.
- 1/3 of drivers text and drive out of habit.
- 28% are worried about missing out on something important by not checking their phones right away.
- Over a quarter believe their ability to drive is not affected by texting.
- Over a quarter feel that others expect them to respond “right away.”
- 6% admitted to being “addicted to texting,” and 14% feel anxious if they don’t immediately respond.
- 17% feel satisfied when they read or respond to a text message.
Phones Like Slot Machines
Greenfield studies the effects of digital technology on the human brain. He likens smartphones “the world’s smallest slot machines” due to the fact they affect the brain in a similar fashion as gambling or drugs. He feels that people stopping texting and driving might not be realistic, but that Apps, education, and laws against texting and driving, can all help to change people’s behavior.
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