Use of cell phones while driving may be tied to other risky road behaviors in young adults
A new study from researchers at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that 18- to 24-year-olds who use cell phones while driving are more likely to engage in other risky driving behaviors associated with “acting-without-thinking,” a form of impulsivity. The findings suggest the importance of developing new strategies to prevent risky driving in young adults, especially those with impulsive personalities.
The study was published in the
Cell phone use while driving has been linked to increased crash and near-crash risk. Despite bans on handheld cell phone use while driving in many states, crash reduction results are inconsistent. One explanation may be that those who use cell phones while driving are more likely to engage in other intentionally risky behaviors. Instead of solely addressing the use of cell phones while driving, the authors suggest training young drivers to avoid all risky behaviors associated with impulsivity and sensation seeking.