With accident rates from distracted driving skyrocketing, the survey results show a glaring issue with young drivers. Researchers compiled data from 35 states and drivers 14 and older. In 34 of the states looked at texting while driving is illegal.
The results by state showed that the lower the age to get a learner’s permit, the more likely the student drivers were to text behind the wheel. The results ranged from 64-percent in South Dakota to 26-percent in Maryland. Five of the states had more than 50-percent of kids saying they texted and drove.
Some experts say a graduated licensing system would curb the dangerous habit. Researchers also point out they only asked about texting and emailing behind the wheel, so other cell phone related, and dangerous practices, likely take place too.
Looks like it’s time to have a heart-to-heart with our young drivers.
Source: WebMD