Distracted driving is a dangerous habit, but one that many Canadians are taking part in despite their feelings on its acceptability.
According to a release from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), one third or 33 per cent of Canadians admitted in a poll that they have texted while stopped at a red light in the last month.
Drivers are texting at red lights despite evidence that the driver’s mind could still be distracted and not on the task of driving for up to 27 seconds after interacting with a phone, which is much longer than the time it takes to drive through an intersection.
"These numbers are troubling," says Jeff Walker, vice-president of public affairs for CAA. "The effect of texting at a red light lingers well after the light turns green, making it a dangerous driving habit."
And while nearly 70 per cent of Canadians believe using their phone at a red light is unacceptable, this has not stopped people from doing it.
"It's socially unacceptable to drive drunk, and that's where we need to get with texting," says Walker. "Attitudes are beginning to shift, but our actions need to follow."
People who wish to learn more about common distractions and how to avoid them while driving, may visit the CAA website.
CAA is a federation of nine clubs providing over six million members with emergency roadside service, complete automotive and travel services, member savings and comprehensive insurance services. CAA also advocates on issues of concern to its members, including road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure and consumer protection.
