• 15
  • December
    2011

The recent report released by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) that called for a total ban on cell phone use by drivers has been causing quite a stir. The recommendation stems from a series of fatal accidents investigated by the NTSB, including one fatal Missouri accident caused by a 19-year-old driver texting a friend.

While many transportation safety agencies have focused heavily on the dangers of distracted driving, some advocates believe that the emphasis should actually be on drinking and driving. Impaired driving still accounts for more U.S. car accident fatalities than distracted driving, according to Department of Transportation (DOT) statistics.

Based on new 2010 DOT statistics, distracted driving played a role in nine percent of fatal highway crashes. Impaired or drinking and driving caused 31 percent of fatal highway crashes. Even though highway fatalities are the lowest in six decades, there are still far too many preventable car accidents.

The next blog post will discuss current efforts to raise awareness of the dangers associated with distracted driving and drinking and driving, especially going into the holiday season. The next post will also explain the criticism surrounding the campaigns and safety recommendations.

Source: Wall Street Journal, "New Distracted Driving Measure Shows Alcohol Is Still the Bigger Threat," Joseph White, 12/9/2011

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2011/12/ntsb-recommends-full-ban-on-cellphones-when-driving.html