Online Survey Finds Drivers Acknowledge Cell Phone Dangers But Donât Hang Up
Irvine, CAâJuly 2, 2001
Updated
Jul 7, 2004 20:36:54
Rating
184 ( -26 -14.13% )
Description: â Internet users concede that using a cell phone while driving is not safe, but that doesnât mean theyâre not dialing up behind the wheel. A recent online survey conducted by Autobytel.com found that while nearly 70 percent of people surveyed believe driving and cell phones donât mix, only 23 percent actually refrain from combining the two. These numbers go hand in hand with a National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) report that finds 80 percent of the 110 million cell phone subscribers are talking and driving at the same time, accounting for 54 percent of Americaâs drivers. When Autobytel.com inquired as to the nature of these calls, nearly 50 percent reported them to be personal calls, while only 30 percent responded that they use their cell phone for emergencies and 23 percent for conducting business. Respondents to the online survey concurred with the recent legislation passed in New York to restrict cell phone use while driving. Amid attempts to implement similar restrictions in at least 39 states, the online survey found that 46 percent of respondents believe that driving while using cell phones should be outlawed completely, and an additional 21 percent said cell phone usage while driving should have some restrictions. Still, 77 percent say they have never caused an accident, missed an off ramp or made a wrong turn while using a cell phone. In fact, the majority of people surveyed said using a cell phone ranked behind attending to a child as a driving hazard.
âAccording to our results, it seems that although consumers think that driving while using a cell phone could be dangerous, it is not easy to get them to give it up,â said Autobytel.com CEO and President Mark Lorimer. âAs states like New York begin enacting laws prohibiting the use of handheld cell phones while driving, we want to be there to provide consumer information on cell phone safety.â The Autobytel.com website is posting information on cell phone safety, along with frequently asked questions, and links to cell phone legislation information. The cell phone information can be accessed through the MyGarage section of the website at (under the "Own" tab). By registering at MyGarage, vehicle owners can also check their vehicleâs safety recalls, receive repair and maintenance reminders, view service schedules, get advice, insurance quotes, trade-in valuations, and more.
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184 ( -26 -14.13% )