Teenagers' Distracted Driving Influenced by Parents' Dangerous Behaviors

Think about your driving habits in the past year. How often have you answered the phone while driving? How often have you sent a text message? Were your children in the car when you engaged in these behaviors?

A new study released by SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) and Liberty Mutual Insurance reveals parents' poor driving decisions are influencing the driving habits of their children. The study questioned over 1,700 teenagers to discuss behaviors behind the wheel. The teens were asked about distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and driving without a seatbelt. The results indicated that parents of teens are often engaging in these dangerous behaviors, and teens are quick to follow suit.

According to the survey, 91 percent of the teens reported their parents talked on their cellphones while driving and another 59 percent sent text messages while on the road. In turn, 90 percent of the teens admitted they also spoke on their cellphones while driving and 78 percent said they sent text messages. Consequently, even if parents speak to their children about safety on the road, the study found that parents' dangerous driving habits influence their children's behavior.

It is no surprise that 66 percent of the teens surveyed indicated their parents fail to follow the same rules they impose on their children. A senior advisor at SADD stated, "Parents have to demonstrate good driving behavior from the onset so new drivers understand that safe driving rules apply to everyone equally."

Georgia Distracted Driving Accidents

Laws regarding distracted driving vary by state, and motorists are required to abide by the laws of the state in which they are driving. Under Georgia law, all drivers are prohibited from texting while driving. In addition, both bus drivers and novice drivers are forbidden from using cellphones of any kind, whether they are handheld or hands-free. While distracted driving laws are continuing to evolve, Georgia drivers are responsible for ensuring they abide by the current laws of the state.

These laws are critical when considering distracted driving crash statistics nationwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of drivers who were distracted at the time of a deadly accident has increased in recent years. In 2010, a total of 3,092 people died in distracted driver accidents, while another approximately 416,000 people sustained injuries in such motor vehicle wrecks.

Despite these harrowing statistics, Georgia drivers do not always adhere to the laws and safety regulations. In 2008, an online survey found that 37 percent of Georgia drivers admitted to texting while driving.

It is particularly important for Georgia parents to start acting as positive role models for their children when on the road. The demographic with the largest proportion of distracted drivers is those between 16 and 20 years of age. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 11 percent of drivers in that age group who were involved in a fatal accident were distracted when the crash occurred.

When someone is injured or killed in a distracted driving accident, the responsible party should be held accountable. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in such a crash, consulting with a skilled Macon, Georgia, personal injury attorney will ensure your rights are protected and just compensation is received.

Article provided by The Law Firm of Kathy McArthur
Visit us at www.mcarthurlawfirm.com

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