Nationwide Survey Finds 92% of Drivers Use Phones Behind the Wheel

Woman driving a vehicle while holding a smartphone to her ear, illustrating handheld phone use behind the wheel.

Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road, and it’s far more common than many realize.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,275 people were killed in car accidents involving distracted drivers in 2022. Texting is especially dangerous. Sending or reading a text takes drivers' eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes shut.

Every driver knows they shouldn’t text and drive. Some can probably quote distracted driving laws off the top of their head. Yet, the temptation to check a message, scroll social media, or adjust the playlist never seems to disappear.

Survey shows distraction is a big problem for drivers

Nationwide’s latest survey, released for National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, shows something alarming: even though people understand the risks, they’re still taking chances behind the wheel.

Here's what the survey found:

92% of drivers say they notice others looking at their phones more often.
88% think drivers are more reckless than they were just a year ago.
72% see road rage regularly.
11% of drivers admit to reading or writing emails while driving.

Despite all this, nearly 80% of people still rate their own driving as “very good” or “excellent.” So while we may recognize the dangers, many of us think we’re the exception to the rule.

Which distractions are most common on the road?

Here’s what drivers admit to doing while driving:

Adjusting music or entertainment (64%)
Using GPS apps (55%)
Talking on hands-free calls (55%)
Eating or drinking (50%)
Texting (20%)
Watching videos (13%)
Reading or writing emails (11%)

Phones top the list, but they’re only part of the problem. Distracted driving can include any visual, manual, or cognitive distraction. This can include eating, drinking, self-grooming, looking out the window, talking to passengers, multi-tasking, or even daydreaming.

Are distracted driving laws actually working?

Most people are aware of their state's distracted driving/hand-free laws. According to the survey:

81% know about texting and driving restrictions
76% are aware of hands-free requirements
74% know that handheld phone use is banned in some states

However, only 48% of those surveyed believe these rules are effective. In other words, the message is out there, but it’s not always being followed. Additionally, touchscreens, displays, and infotainment systems are supposed to make driving easier. But almost half of drivers (47%) say these built-in systems are just one more thing pulling their attention away from the road.

How does distracted driving impact rideshare drivers?

Most people say they feel safe in a rideshare. In fact, 78% believe rideshares help reduce drinking and driving, and 58% say they make the roads safer. Still, many passengers say they’ve witnessed their Uber or Lyft driver doing some questionable things, such as:

Using GPS (80%)
Adjusting the radio (64%)
Talking on a handheld phone (41%)
Texting (33%)
Even getting ready for the day while driving (19%)

It’s no surprise that 1 in 5 riders have given a low rating to a rideshare driver for unsafe behavior.

Can dashcams and AI make drivers safer?

Dashcams have gone from a niche gadget to a trusted safety tool, and many drivers are on board with them. Only 13% of people have AI dashcams installed right now, but those who do say they’re helpful and not distracting. According to the survey:

85% say dashcams encourage safer driving
94% believe dashcams provide valuable evidence during accidents or disputes
60% are comfortable with AI-enabled dashcams that monitor driver behavior

Additionally, a full 41% of people believe drivers who use AI-powered dashcams deserve lower premiums because they reduce risk.

What to do if you're hurt by a distracted driver

If you were injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver in the DMV, the Law Offices of Stuart L. Plotnick, LLC, is here to help you every step of the way. Even when it's clear who was at fault for your crash, insurance companies will work to reduce their liability and keep your compensation as low as possible. With our law firm on your side, we won't let the insurance company get the upper hand.

Our dedicated legal team can handle every aspect of your case, from investigating the crash scene to gathering evidence and dealing with the insurance company. We build strong cases and fight for the compensation you deserve so that you can focus on healing. There are also no upfront costs to work with us, and you pay no fees unless we win your cases.

Don’t wait to consult an experienced distracted driving accident lawyer. Evidence can disappear quickly, and delays can hurt your chances of a full financial recovery. Contact us online or call today to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us help you hold the at-fault driver accountable and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

“From the beginning, it felt like a very personal experience. Stuart took the time on phone calls and emails to explain everything in the process and to do follow-ups. He advised on treatments, doctors, etc. My advice in the process is to be PATIENT and don't rush treating. I am happy with my results and would highly recommend him!" - Janice, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐