Distraction tops list of growing dangers on the road

According to a new survey from AAA, distracted driving tops drivers’ list of growing dangers on the road.

The annual Traffic Safety Culture Index shows that 88-percent of drivers say distracted driving is on the rise, topping other risky behaviors like aggressive driving, using drugs while driving, and even drunk driving.

The number of drivers who report talking on a cell phone regularly when behind the wheel jumped 46-percent since 2013. Nearly half of drivers report recently talking on a cellphone while driving and nearly 35-percent have sent a text or email.

Despite their behavior, nearly 58-percent of drivers say talking on a cellphone behind the wheel is a very serious threat to their personal safety. A recent study from the AAA Foundation shows drivers talking on a cellphone are up to four times as likely to crash, while those who text are up to eight times as likely to be involved in a crash.

In order to avoid distractions, AAA recommends putting aside electronics and never use text messaging, email, or the internet while driving.

You should also pre-program your GPS and adjust your seats, mirrors, climate controls and sound systems before hitting the road.