Using a cellphone while driving increases crash risk. Researchers have consistently linked texting or otherwise manipulating a cellphone to increased risk. Some studies, but not all, have found that talking on a cellphone also increases crash risk.
Cellphones and texting aren’t the only things that can distract drivers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines distracted driving as any activity that could divert attention from the primary task of driving. Besides using electronic gadgets, distractions can also include adjusting a radio, eating and drinking, reading, grooming, and interacting with passengers. The crash risk associated with these other activities isn’t well established.
Laws restricting phone use by drivers and crash avoidance technology are two approaches that may help reduce distraction-related crashes. Broad bans on manipulating electronic devices seem to be most promising, rather than laws that only target talking or texting. Crash avoidance systems can bring drivers’ attention back to the road, regardless of the cause of the distraction.