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Posted by Jerry Lopper Sep 21, 2006 |
If you drive don't use your cell phone. Research at the University of Utah indicates that using a cell phone while driving impairs driving ability as much as driving while intoxicated.
Ah, but I use a hands-free phone you might say, thinking that solves the problem. Unfortunately, and perhaps not intuitively, research subjects had just as many accidents on the driving simulator when using a hands-free phone as when using a hand-held one. Apparently the problem is not having one's hands occupied, it's the ensuing conversation that distracts attention.
Though cell-using drivers and intoxicated drivers were impaired differently, their overall accident rates were the same. Cell users braking reactions were slowed, while intoxicated drivers were more aggressive and followed closer to the vehicle in front of them.
If you're someone who is cautious and concerned about mixing alcohol and driving, it's time to extend that concern to cell phones. If you must phone while driving, pull over or let a passenger handle the phone chores.