Daily Brief: 2016.11.30
THREAT ANALYSIS
Distracted Driving Study
According to a recently released study, a novel program has been found to effectively increase awareness of the dangers of texting while driving in teens. The program, known as “Get the Message: A Teenage Distracted Driving Program”, was created to identify, define, and measure the factors that contribute to distracted driving in teens.
(Sources: Forbes)
According to the study, the program included a tour of a hospital trauma center as well as a testimony from a trauma survivor. Researchers found that the percentage of teens who said they were unlikely to make a phone call while driving increased from 64% before the program to 82% after the program, while the percentage who said they were unlikely to send a text while driving increased from 69% to 92%.
(Sources: Journal of Trauma Nursing, Insurance Journal)
Distracted driving can be defined as ‘any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving.’ According to data released in 2014, 3,179 people were killed and 431,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. Between 2013 and 2014, the percentage of driver’s text-messaging or visibly manipulating handheld devices increased from 1.7 percent to 2.2 percent.
(Sources: Distraction.gov, CDC)
ACTION STEPS
- Please use the following link to learn more about the study.
- It is important for parents and children alike to understand road safety and the risks of driving. (Source: AAA)
- Parents are encouraged to continue practicing driving with teens, even after they receive a license. (Source: NSC)