New study shows 39% rise in cell phone use while driving in California

The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and the California Highway Patrol released a new study last week revealing a 39% increase in the use of cell phones while driving in California.

“It’s shocking that nearly 10% of motorists were observed using their cell phones while driving a motor vehicle, a potentially-lethal combination,” said OTS director Ronda Craft. “We will continue our aggressive public outreach campaign and our partnership with law enforcement to educate the public about the dangers of those who drive distracted and put the lives of others at risk.”

[Related: New technology prevents cell phone use while driving]

For the first half of 2015, 9.2% of motorists were seen using a cell phone while driving, up from 6.6% the previous year. Since the research began, the highest level recorded was in 2012 when 10.8% of motorists were spotted using a cell phone while driving.

Compared to 2014, motorists observed holding a phone to the ear while driving increased by 0.6%, the use of headsets/Bluetooth devices increased by 0.5%, and those manipulating a hand-held device while driving increased by 1.1%. Although there is no significant difference between male and female drivers, the use of mobile devices by male drivers increased by 1.7% compared to last year. Observation of young drivers showed that 7.0% of all 16-24-year-olds displayed use of mobile devices while driving. The study also revealed an increase of 1.5% between 25-69-year-old drivers.

“Discouraging drivers from operating a vehicle while distracted is a challenge that law enforcement is faced with year-round,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “By raising awareness through education and enforcement, we are working toward changing the dangerous behavior of using a cell phone while driving – and the purpose is to save lives.”

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 80% of motor vehicle accidents involve distracted drivers. Approximately 3,000 people nationwide lose their lives in motor vehicle accidents involving distracted drivers.

The complete report can be viewed at "Observational study of cell phone and texting use among California drivers 2015 and comparison to 2001 through 2014 data."