Two surveys conducted in 2008 found that over half of drivers admit to using cell phones while driving at least occasionally, with 16-17% reporting regular use. Younger drivers aged 25-34 reported the highest rates of cell phone use while driving. Both surveys also found that around 15% of drivers admit to reading or sending text messages while driving occasionally, with 3% doing so regularly. However, most drivers incorrectly believe that using hands-free cell phones is safer than hand-held phones, despite studies finding no safety difference. The surveys highlight the disconnect between drivers' beliefs about safe cell phone use and their actual self-reported behaviors.

1. Cell Phones and Driving: Research Update

3. 501(c)(3) Not-For-Profit

4. Research affiliate of AAA/CAA

6. Foster research that seeks solutions

10. Approximately 11% of drivers were using hand-held or hands-free phones while driving at any given moment during the day in 2007 (NHTSA)

12. Conducted from October 25, 2007 through January 10, 2008 by NuStats, LLC

16. …but it’s not just young drivers.

17. Drivers aged 25-34 had highest rates of any cell phone use (TSCI) and of regular cell phone use while driving (both surveys)

20. 3% (both surveys) report doing this regularly

23. …BUT virtually all studies have found that using hands-free phones while driving is no safer than using a hand-held cell phone.*Based on data collected in the CARAVAN survey

24. “Too many Americans are driving around with a false sense of security that hands-free devices are somehow safer, which could be a deadly mistake.”-J. Peter Kissinger, AAA Foundation President & CEO

25. To view the full “Cell Phones and Driving: Research Update” report or find other information about traffic safety culture, go to www.AAAFoundation.org.

26. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a 501(c)(3) public charity located in Washington, DC that is dedicated to saving lives and reducing injuries. It is supported by donations from AAA/CAA Clubs, AAA/CAA members, and other organizations associated with AAA/CAA.

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