Texting may Slow Driver Reaction Times More than Alcohol

A recent study takes an in-depth look into the perils of texting while driving.

U.S. researchers reveal that as many as 4 out of 5 college students drivers have commonly used their cell phones while driving in order to text or receive a text message.

According to lead study authors Garold Lantz and Sandra Loeb of the McGowan School of Business, at King's College, in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, they found that male drivers in particular were more likely to engage in texting and driving as they often consider themselves better drivers and do not worry about the possible health consequences of an accident.

Earlier studies have suggested that texting and driving can be similar to driving while under the influence. In fact, some research even suggests that texting slows driver reaction times more than being drink. Other studies have also reinforced the myth of multitasking and show that very few people can completely undertake two or more tasks at once.

"There seems to be a mentality that use of electronic devices is dangerous for everyone but 'me'," the team said, via a press release. While the US government has introduced a public awareness campaign based around the "distraction.gov" web site, the means to correct for such a risky practice as texting while driving is in dispute. The team's study provides useful empirical evidence regarding attitudes to this issue.

"If further research conclusively demonstrates that texting while driving is as dangerous as driving drunk this study suggests that a promotional campaign should be undertaken to assure that this point is clearly understood," the team suggests. Lantz points out that, "Our study, particularly our measurement of impulsiveness, is exploratory. We have been working to develop that measurement and it is still a work in progress," he said, via the release.

 More information regarding the study can be found via the International Journal of Sustainable Strategic Management this month.