There are motorists across all age groups that drive while distracted, but research shows that drivers of certain ages are the worst offenders. Teenagers and young adults are among those most likely to drive while distracted by cellphones, other passengers and other sources of distraction. This means enhanced dangers for everyone sharing Illinois’ roadways with these drivers.
Per Central Illinois Proud, driving while distracted raises a motorist’s risk of crashing, causing others to crash or hitting a pedestrian.
Statistics on driver distraction
Studies show that driver distraction contributes to 15% of all crashes resulting in one or more injuries. It also contributes to 14% of all car wrecks reported to law enforcement officials across the nation. In 2019 alone, distracted driving was to blame for 3,142 deaths from coast to coast. Motorists who are the most likely to drive while distracted are those who fall within the 16 – 24 age range.
Sources of driver distraction
Cellphones are one of the most well-publicized sources of distraction and with good reason. While any use of a handheld phone behind the wheel is dangerous, texting is especially so. This is due to the fact that texting takes a driver’s cognitive, manual and visual attention away from the car’s controls. Eating or putting on makeup also takes a driver’s attention away from the task at hand. Another common source of distraction, particularly among younger drivers, is teenage passengers. Teenage passengers are a frequent factor in distraction-related crashes involving teen drivers.
Drivers who drive while distracted and cause injuries to others may face legal or civil sanctions.
