Drivers admit to bad habit even though almost three-quarters acknowledge it’s totally unacceptable and unsafe
One-third of Canadian drivers admit they break the law by texting while stopped at red lights, according to a poll held by the Canadian Automobile Association late December 2016.
The poll further revealed 70 percent of Canadians understand texting while behind the wheel is unacceptable, but clearly the temptation is strong enough for some to act against their better judgement.
“The effect of texting at a red light lingers well after the light turns green, making it a dangerous driving habit,” said Jeff Walker, vice-president of public affairs for the Canadian Automobile Association.
Situational awareness is critical to safe driving, and when typing a text message, drivers tend to lose that awareness of their surroundings, rendering themselves unable to respond in the event of an imminent collision.
Many drivers have been killed while sitting at red lights after being rear-ended by large trucks or smaller vehicles travelling at high speeds. Being aware of your surroundings at all times while behind the wheel could literally save your life.
“It’s socially unacceptable to drive drunk, and that’s where we need to get with texting,” said Walker.
Source: Autofocus