It has been well documented that cellphones can be distracting when driving, whether you're using them to text or talk on the phone. New research has revealed that cellphones can distract you even when they are just visibly nearby. Research published in the Journal of Social Psychology examined the habits of more than 50 college students. Participants were asked to complete different motor tasks with a cellphone visible. In the second group, participants were asked to complete a task with their own cellphones visible. The performance of the tasks in both cases were worse than those where no cellphones were visible. It is noted in the study that multitasking is common with mobile technology use, and the sight of a cellphone reminds users about the possibility of greater productivity or ways to stay in touch with others. Unfortunately, this also means that passengers could unknowingly be distracting drivers if they use a cellphone while in the car. Next time you head out on the road, consider storing your cellphone in a place like the glove compartment or a purse. Your cellphone should be nearby in case of an emergency, but it should not be accessible enough to distract you. In 2012, the Ohio State Patrol noted that more than 31,000 accidents between 2009 and 2011 were caused by a distracted driver. The majority of the accidents were in the Franklin County area. Drivers under 18 are not permitted to use a cellphone while driving and it is considered a secondary offense if a driver is caught texting while driving in Ohio. Unfortunately, as research reveals that even having a cellphone nearby can distract you, it is going to take driver awareness to stop the distracted driving epidemic. Have you or someone you love been injured in a distracted driving accident? Did you know that victims of motor vehicle wrecks may be entitled to compensation for damages? The experienced personal injury attorneys at O'Connor, Acciani & Levy can you help determine what your legal options are and if you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit.
How Cellphones Distract You Even When You’re Not Using Them
