Driver Distractions

Ed Smith

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State Senator Carole Migden rear-ended vehicle while possibly talking on cell phone causing a three car accident.

Driver distraction as a cause of motor vehicle crashes is an important issue. We find that drivers can be distracted by discussions with other passengers, eating or drinking, picking up things off the floor and changing radio stations. Another source that has become an increasing concern is the use of cell phones.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that driver distraction is a contributing cause of 20 to 30% of all motor vehicle collisions.

California is one of the Jurisdictions that collects data regarding cell phone involvement in motor vehicle crashes.