Most drivers admit to engaging in at least one distraction while driving and the list is growing thanks to technological devices such as global positioning systems, DVD players and text messaging. The poll indicates that multi-tasking while driving is only likely to grow, with the youngest, least experienced drivers being the group most likely to drive while sending or reading a text message or talking on a cell phone.
All that adds up to growing anxiety among drivers, who view the road as an increasingly risky place.
The third annual Drive for Life poll, conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling and Research, found drivers feel less safe and perceive they are more likely to get into a collision than 5 years ago.
"We can engineer safer cars and even smarter cars that correct some driver errors," said Anne Belec, president and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America LLC. "But there is no substitute for urging all drivers to be focused and committed to safety."
Drive for Life is a nationwide educational effort sponsored by Volvo Cars of North America, in partnership with the National Association of Police Organizations and the National Sheriffs' Association, with expertise from the American Automobile Association and technical support from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Drive for Life encourages safe driving habits through its Web site, http://www.driveforlife.com, and an annual 30-minute national television broadcast, "Drive for Life: The National Safe Driving Test," that also is distributed to high schools that teach drivers' education.
(Tomorrow: Driving is Getting Under Drivers' Skin)
