A new study released by the Highway Loss Data Institute shows no decrease in crashes after hand-held cell phone bans take effect.
The study compared insurance accident claims in four different geographical areas before and then after hand-held cell phone bans went into effect.
"The laws aren't reducing crashes, even though we know that such laws have reduced hand-held phone use, and several studies have established that phoning while driving increases crash risk," says Adrian Lund, president of both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and HLDI.
The study focused on New York, the District of Columbia, Connecticut and California. Researchers did note a drop in accidents in New York, but said the trend began well before the laws took effect and continued after they were in place.
Lund cites one reason for the lack of decline is that many drivers switch from handheld to hands-free cell phones when bans are in place. No state currently bans all drivers from using cell phones. Several studies have shown drivers using hands-free devices cause just as many accidents as drivers using handheld devices.
Researchers did place controls for variables such as weather changes and driving patterns to calculate the rate of accidents.
Chicago has had a handheld cell phone ban in place since 2005.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious accident, our Chicago personal injury lawyers may be able to assist. Contact us for a free consultation.
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Additionally, cell phone bans have proven difficult to enforce. While spotting a driver with a phone up to their ear is easy, it's nearly impossible for police to recognize someone using a hands free device, and then have to more or less guess how old the drivers are. Furthermore, many teenagers are unaware that a ban on cell phone use even exists. Because teens are ignoring these restrictions, and it is difficult to spot, parental influence is paramount. As our firm handles a vast number of auto accidents each year, we hope that parents will accept their responsibility in teaching their children safe driving habits. Hopefully, it will be a means by which accidents and especially fatalities among teens will decline.For more information visit us at:-Accidents Direct.
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