17 October 2014 - By Eugene Herbert - The RAC Group

Distracted while driving (DWD) is a major problem in most developing countries that have identified the use of Cell phones, while driving, as a causative factor in some 25 % of crashes.

Just when we thought that we had conceived the worst example of cell phone use (abuse) with the downloading of apps while driving as well as communicating with friends via Facebook, then a new phenomenon surfaces – selfies. A recent word to the official dictionary this has been the subject of research by Ford in Europe.

Ford conducted research in seven EU countries which found that young British drivers are the most likely to take a ‘selfie’ while driving.

The survey was conducted of 7,000 smartphone users aged 18-24 from across Europe and results revealed that, British drivers were the most likely to photograph themselves while on the move (33 per cent), ahead of counterparts in Germany (28 per cent), France (28 per cent), Romania (27 per cent), Italy (26 per cent), Spain (18 per cent), and Belgium (17 per cent). Even though nearly all drivers surveyed agreed the activities were dangerous.

Shocked are you? Well no doubt many others share your sentiment but in all probability many of those, if given the opportunity to “take a selfie” may well likely succumb.

While we obviously don’t have any idea what the state of affairs is in South Africa we can, in all probability conclude that it should be a lot worse given our penchant for breaking the law.

All drivers should take a moment to reflect on the reality that, while they may excuse using a cell phone, it is aside from DUI, one of the most dangerous activities undertaken by road users.

Some information:

A similar survey by ETSC’s member Liikenneturva found a third of drivers admitted reading text messages or Facebook while driving. In Europe, transport accidents remain the largest single cause of death among people aged 15 to 29.

• General Motors is planning to introduce new sensor technology in its cars to warn drivers of lapses in attention either due to fatigue or distraction.
 
• The Belgian Road Safety Institute has launched a new communications campaign targeting drivers who use their mobile at the wheel.  The BRSI say 1 in 3 Belgian drivers admits to sending an SMS while driving and almost half say they have made a call while holding the phone in their hand.
 
Well folks be warned – it may seem like a “cool” thing to do at the time but rest assured it just isn’t worth the risk.

Remember – Drive Safe and keep your phone where it belongs, away from prying hands.
 
Eugene Herbert
Group Managing Director
The RAC Group     

http://advanceddriving.co.za