US teens spend driving time distracted by smartphones

A new study reveals nearly 92% of young U.S. drivers are distracted by their smartphones while driving, spending an average of 21% of their driving time looking at their screens. This behavior significantly increases accident risk. The study, published in "Traffic Injury Prevention," found that entertainment, like games and videos, is the primary distraction, followed by texting and navigation. Researchers surveyed over 1,100 young drivers and conducted interviews to understand the motivations behind smartphone use while driving. Researchers suggest that the perception of distracted driving as a social norm, coupled with overconfidence in resisting the urge to use phones, may hinder safety campaigns. The study offers insights for developing effective measures to reduce this dangerous behavior.