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Majority of U.S. Drivers Engage in Reckless Driving Habits

texting-accidentA stunning 87 percent of U.S. drivers admit to engaging in at least one reckless driving habit over the past month, according to a new study. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety gathered information on driving habits in a recent driver survey.

The prevalence of reckless driving behaviors coincides with an estimated nine percent increase in traffic accident fatalities for 2015.

Reckless Driving Habits

Traffic accidents are all too common across the country; one in three drivers have had relatives or friends who were killed or severely injured in an auto accident, and one in five have been in an accident that was so severe that victims required hospital treatment.

Survey respondents reported engaging in a number of reckless driving habits in the past month, including:

  • Using a cell phone behind the wheel – 70 percent reported having a phone conversation while driving, 42 percent said they’ve read texts or emails, and 32 percent say they have typed and sent such messages while driving.
  • Speeding – On freeways, 48 percent of drivers say they’ve exceeded posted speeds by 15mph; 45 percent say they’ve gone 10mph over the speed limit on residential roads.
  • Ignoring traffic signals – 39 percent of drivers say they have run a red light in cases where they could have safety come to a stop in time.
  • Failing to use seatbelts – 18 percent of drivers say they drove without wearing a seatbelt; 15 percent of drivers say they’ve done so more than once.
  • Driving under the influence – 13 percent of drivers report driving when their blood alcohol concentration may have been over the legal limit.

If you have suffered an accident injury caused by a reckless driver, you may be entitled to compensation for the resulting lost wages, medical bills and other expenses. Our auto accident lawyers can help you maximize your compensation while seeking justice on your behalf.

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