Multitasking is a way of life for many throughout the Kansas City metro area. In an effort to accomplish as many things as possible in as short of time as possible, doing two (or more) things at the same time has become commonplace. Anyplace or anywhere an additional moment can be stolen, we do. This includes talking on the phone while driving.
While this may be common throughout the United States, according to a recent report, drivers in European countries are not nearly as concerned about multitasking while behind the wheel. In fact, many fewer, it would seem, engage in that behavior.
The study determined that close to 69 percent of U.S. drivers had used their phone to talk to someone while operating a vehicle over the course of the previous month. That number was lower in France and Germany, where it came in at 40 percent. In the United Kingdom, even fewer participate in the behavior. There, only 21 percent reported engaging in the activity. Compared to European countries, Americans were much more prone to text while driving as well.
All are likely aware why this is an issue. Behaviors that constitute distracted driving, such as using one’s phone, are a common cause of car accidents not only in the state of Missouri, but throughout the nation. While in some cases they lead to individuals suffering injuries, in the worst cases, death is the result.
When someone who is using a phone causes a car accident is possible that he or she will have to deal with more than just car repairs or their own physical recovery. In addition, they could face a civil personal injury lawsuit wherein someone who is injured as a result of the distracted driver’s behavior, could recoup monetary damages.
Source: NPR, “Americans More Distracted Behind The Wheel Than Europeans,” Rob Stein, March 14, 2013
