One need not look any further than recent headlines to see the dangers that distracted driving can cause.
The front page told the tragic story of an infant who was killed when a bus driver jumped the curb while he was using his phone. That story would be enough to illustrate the dangers, but upon opening the paper, readers also found that the driver of the derailed train in Spain also was talking on his phone moments before the crash, which killed 79 passengers.
Both of these examples underscore AAA's recent survey that found that use of cell phones - whether hand-held or hands-free - still creates real cognitive distractions on the roadway. Drivers need to understand the real danger before picking up the phone while driving. When on the roadways, drivers should concentrate on the task at hand: getting to their destination safely.
Regardless of how technology may help to limit visual and manual distractions, the fact of the matter is using a cell phone while driving can result in tragedy. AAA urges drivers to stay safe and put the phone down when they are on the road.
Public Affairs & Government Relations
AAA New Jersey Automobile Club