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Study looks at generational distracted driver behaviors

Encountering a distracted driver is something people throughout Pennsylvania will experience quite often these days. The problem is so widespread that law enforcement and legislators are constantly seeking strategies to stop it. Regardless of the danger and potential penalties for texting and driving and taking part in other distracting behaviors behind the wheel, drivers continue to do it. Research is also imperative to understanding the behavior and trying to stop it. One new survey for Volvo provided some surprising results as to which demographic is prone to distracted driving.

In conjunction with The Harris Poll, Volvo embarked on this distracted driving study and found that 51 percent of people who are classified as “Generation Z” and were born between the mid-1990s and mid-2000s have problems focusing on one task when compared to five years ago. Distraction is a hindrance in accomplishing tasks for 54 percent. In total, two studies found that for Americans, 54 percent experience anxiety with too many things to do. Generation Z came in at 77 percent.

For 33 percent, driving with complete silence is a strategy to maintain concentration. 32 percent set their phone to “do not disturb.” 19 percent use headphones that filter out other noise. 13 percent take part in “digital detox” for a day or two. Distracted driving is a worrisome issue with double the number of people concerned about it than those who are worried about drivers under the influence. Drivers who speed or are aggressive are far down the list of concerns.

90 percent stated they believe distractions are more problematic now than they were five years ago. 43 percent say the phone is the biggest distraction on the road. Millennials and members of Generation X are most prone to using their phones when driving. 81 percent confess to doing so. Younger baby boomers came in at 72 percent; Generation Z at 71 percent. Drivers also said they believe 90 percent of others text and drive, with 60 percent admitting to doing it themselves. Other issues that are worrisome are internet browsing, social media use, video calls and emails.

Although people seem to understand the dangers of being a distracted driver and how it places them at risk, the problem is ongoing. When there is a crash, it is almost automatic that people will think that distraction was a factor. The medical costs, lost wages and loss of life can cause innumerable problems. The accident investigation is key to determine the cause and this can be critical to a legal filing. A law firm that understands how to identify when there was an accident because of a distracted driver may be contacted for advice and help.

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