Workers are four times more likely to crash when using a cellphone while driving. If you talk and drive at the same time, your brain can’t do either well. For example, it’s nearly impossible to read a book and have a phone conversation. While driving, this often results in crashes because of delayed braking times and a lack of attention to traffic signals.
Here are some common beliefs about using cellphones behind the wheel – followed by the facts.
Myth: Drivers can multitask.
Truth: The human brain can’t do two things at once. Instead, it switches between the two tasks, which slows a driver’s reaction time.
Myth: Talking on a cellphone is the same as talking to a passenger.
Truth: Adult passengers are copilots. They can help drivers stay alert to prevent crashes. People on the other end of a phone call can’t see the road.
Myth: Hands-free cellphone use is OK.
Truth: Drivers talking on a cellphone can miss up to half of the driving environment, including red lights, stop signs and pedestrians.
Myth: It’s safe to use a cellphone at a stoplight.
Truth: Even at stoplights, drivers need to remain attentive to all hazards, even when stopped. Texting at a stoplight still causes a driver to be distracted.
Myth: Voice-to-text is safe.
Truth: A recent AAA study found that a driver can be distracted for up to 27 seconds while sending a voice text.
