NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's no secret that distracted driving has become more of a problem over the years, but new research shows just how dangerous it is for motorists.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says even though drivers know how dangerous it is to use a cell phone while driving, it's not stopping them from doing it. That's leading to more crashes and more deaths on the roads.
The IIHS performed a study observing drivers and said the number of drivers using a phone while driving increased by 57 percent from 2014 to 2018. They estimated phones could be to blame for at least 800 deadly crashes a year across the U.S.
However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says it's even more than that. Driving distracted -- whether that's using a phone, eating, putting on makeup or anything like that -- was a factor in almost 3200 roadway deaths in 2017.
Especially when there's the potential for black ice or even snow, it becomes even more critical to focus on the roads.
What can you do?
The Consumer Reports Auto Test Center says the best way to stay safe and without distraction is to obviously just try to put the phone down.
To make it easier, put it out of reach in a way so you can't see the screen. Even the flash from a text popping on the screen can be distracting.
It's also a good idea to utilize your car's Bluetooth options if you have them to do some tasks hands-free.
A lot of people do use phones for music and navigation, but a good idea is to get a mount for your phone. Then, you can at least place it at eye level and out of your hands.
