The fact that teens and younger adult drivers frequently engage in texting behind the wheel and other distracted driving behaviors is now common knowledge. A myriad of legal restrictions, educational campaigns and technology modifications have been initiated in various efforts to curtail the practice of distracted driving among younger motorists. Unfortunately, a new report indicates that efforts need to be made in order to deter older motorists from engaging in the same behaviors as well.

Distracted driving now contributes to more car accidents than any other behavioral choice. And it is not just younger drivers who are driving while distracted. According to a report recently released by insurance giant State Farm, drivers who are at least 30 years in age are using their smartphones while driving at increasing rates.

The report also indicates that motorists of all ages are accessing the Internet on their smartphones while driving at nearly double the rate that they were just five years ago. Today, approximately a quarter of all motorists on the road choose to access the Internet on their phones while driving.

Distracted driving practices are tempting precisely because communication and informational searches are just so easy to make with the swipe of a smartphone screen. Unfortunately, just because using one’s smartphone to text or access information while driving seems easy does not make it less dangerous. Please, for your own sake and the sake of those around you, wait to text or access information until you have pulled over and your car has come to a complete stop.

Source: Insurance Journal, “Older Drivers Catching Up with Younger in Distracted Driving: Survey,” Nov. 12, 2013