Driving distracted

A new survey by FindLaw.com suggests that more than 90% of all drivers allow themselves to be distracted while driving.

“While many states and municipalities are passing or considering laws to restrict activities, such as sending text messages or using cell phones while driving, the survey found that nearly all drivers (91 percent) admit to trying to multitask while behind the wheel, with potentially dangerous consequences,” noted the survey report.

The FindLaw.com survey was conducted using a “demographically balanced” telephone survey of 1,000 American adults. The survey has a margin of error of +/- 3%.

"Multitasking may be great in the office, but is often dangerous and illegal behind the wheel," Stephanie Rahlfs, an attorney and editor with FindLaw.com, said in a statement. "Many states and localities have laws specifically prohibiting activities such as using a cell phone or sending a text message while driving. In addition, several states have laws that hold drivers accountable for distractions that could contribute to an accident."

SURVEY FINDINGS
The most common events people say they have engaged in while driving are:
• Drinking coffee or other beverages – 81%

• Eating – 76%

• Talking on a cell phone – 66%

• Sending or receiving text messages – 29%

• Applying makeup – 11% (21% of women drivers)

• Sending or receiving email – 8%

• Reading a book or newspaper – 7%

• Surfing the Internet – 5%

Also, More than half of drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 say they have sent or received a text message while driving. One out of ten admit to having sent or received emails or surfed the Internet while behind the wheel.