Getting behind the wheel of a car and driving off into the sunset is one of life’s most fulfilling treasures. Operating a vehicle gives you an enormous sense of freedom because you aren’t constrained by the limitations and schedules of others and don’t have to be at the mercy of public transportation. However, the privilege of driving comes with great responsibility and after you’ve been enjoying the luxury of driving for some time, it’s easy to start taking the gift for granted and letting your attention waiver from where it needs to be. Perhaps you’ve found yourself driving while distracted more and more and would like to know if you’re the only one doing so. A recent survey took a look at the most and least distracted drivers by state. Read on to see where your location lands in the pack.
New Mexico Had the Most Distracted Drivers
The state that stands at the top of the most distracted drivers list may surprise you: New Mexico. With a population of just over 2 million people, New Mexico is the 36th most populated state in the US, a position that makes it seem that there would be a relatively small number of distracted drivers when compared to some of the larger states. Nevertheless, New Mexico leads the way in the distracted driver camp and if you reside in this part of the country, you might want to be extra vigilant when you are on the road!
California Had the Least Distracted Drivers
Just as you may have been rather surprised to learn that New Mexico has the most distracted drivers, you may also be equally as shocked to find out that California has the least distracted driver population. California is home to more than 39 million people, making it the most populated state in the nation. Due to the sheer numbers alone, it would seem that California would carry the crown of having the most distracted drivers, but that was the case in this most recent survey.
What You Can Do to Help
Regardless of where you live and no matter what your current driving habits happen to be, it is never too late to change. Some of the reasons cited for distracted driving include using the phone for directions or to make phone calls, sending text messages, applying makeup, and scrolling on social media. If you find yourself engaging in one or more of these activities the next time you are navigating the roads, remember this article, stop what you are doing immediately, and make the highways a safer place for everyone to be.