Two surveys conducted in 2008 found that over half of drivers admit to using cell phones while driving, with 16-17% doing so regularly. Younger drivers aged 25-34 had the highest rates of cell phone use while driving. Both surveys also found that around 14-17% of drivers admit to reading or sending text messages while driving occasionally, with 3% doing so regularly. However, most drivers believe that using hands-free phones is safer, even though studies show hands-free and hand-held phone use are equally risky.

1. Cell Phones and Driving: Research Update

10. Rates of Driver Cell Phone Use by Age *Full bar = any usage Shaded portion = often or very often **Based on data collected in the AAA Foundation’s 2008 Traffic Safety Culture Index

15. “ 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

17. 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 .