More than 80 percent of Michigan motorists feel drivers talking on cell phones are more likely to be involved in a crash, despite the fact more than 56 percent admittedly make and accept cell phone calls while driving, according to a statewide phone survey conducted for the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP).
The percentage jumps to nearly 96 percent when asked about potential crash involvement for drivers who are texting or emailing while driving. According to Michigan crash data, nearly 4,000 crashes in 2010 listed the driver condition as distracted. Cell phone use was indicated in 881 crashes.
The 600-sample telephone survey was conducted by Glengariff Group, Inc., in advance of April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
“It appears drivers are aware of the dangers of being distracted by cell phones and texting,” said Michael L. Prince, OHSP director. “But the ability and pressure to be constantly connected and available seem to trump traffic safety.”