A study published last week by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute indicates that teen drivers are very cautious when they start driving, but increasingly engage in risky behavior as time passes. "Novice drivers are more likely to engage in high risk secondary tasks more frequently over time as they become more comfortable driving," said Charlie Klauer, from the Center for Vulnerable Road User Safety.
The study found that in the first six months, novice drivers were careful, but as they gained experience they began to participate in distracting activities, such as dialing their cellphones, or other mobile devices. This study was the first to look at how multitasking affects beginners as well as experienced drivers.
Researchers found that the use of hand-held cellphones or other portable devices increases the risk of crashing by 300 percent, sending or receiving a text takes the driver's eyes off the road for a little over four seconds, which is the time it would take to drive 100 yards at 55 mph. The moral is simple: driving requires attention.
If you have been injured in an auto accident by a distracted driver, you need to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney. Call The Law Offices of Robert Paysinger at (303) 279-0221 or visit www.paysingerlaw.com today to schedule a free consultation.
Source: USA Today
