Distracted Driving Statistics: Shocking Numbers + Infographic

Our roads are more dangerous than they’ve been in years, and distracted driving is one of the main culprits. Numerous studies over the last 15 years have proven that distracted driving increases the chances of an accident, and recent statistics (presented in our infographic below) show just how bad the situation on our roads has become.

It should be no surprise to anyone that cell phone usage is one of the top driving distractions. Other activities that frequently divert drivers’ attention away from the road include:

  • eating
  • drinking
  • interacting with passengers
  • using the car’s navigation system
  • adjusting audio and climate controls
  • and (believe it or not) grooming

Any activity that take the driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the steering wheel, or mind off the task of driving compromises the safety of others on the road.

At any given time thoughout the day, roughly 660,000 drivers are on their phone while behind the wheel. If you have been involved in an accident resulting from a distracted driver, call 1-866-900-7078 for a free case evaluation.

Share These Distracted Driving Facts

The risk of being in an accident caused by a distracted driver is very real. We’ve compiled data from many different sources into an easy-to-read infographic. Please feel free to use and share the infographic and help us raise awareness and prevent distracted driving.

Distracted Driving Statistics infographics

Concentrate on the Road While Driving

Distracted driving is a problem we can solve if we put away our cell phones (and other distractions) and hold ourselves accountable to others on the road. We mean business when we say: don’t drive distracted.

If You Have Been Injured by a Distracted Driver, Demand Justice

When someone behind the wheel ignores all the statistics and drives distracted anyway, we have to switch our attention from raising awareness to seeking accountability.

If you, or a loved one, were injured by another driver who was driving while distracted, we can help you. Since 1997, we have helped more than 60,000 people – many of them injured in car accidents caused by distracted, drunk, or careless drivers – recover over $1.6 billion in total compensation.1 For a free case evaluation, call us today at 1-866-900-7078 or contact us online.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Distracted Driving



What percent of accidents are caused by distracted driving?

NHTSA reported that 8% of fatal crashes, 14% of injury crashes, and 13% of all police-reported traffic crashes in 2020 were identified as distraction-affected crashes.

What is the economic impact of distracted driving in the U.S.?

NHTSA reported that distracted driving crashes cost $98 billion in 2019. In comparison, drunk driving crashes cost $57 billion across the country.

Does texting while driving increase the risk of crashes?

Yes, significantly. A Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study found that texting while driving raised a driver’s crash risk by 23x.

About the Author

Alexandria Tuttle practices personal injury law in North Carolina for the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin. Her journey includes working full-time as a lead paralegal for the firm during the day and attending law school at night for four straight years. She strives to make a personal connection with her clients and find the right way to explain the many steps of a case. In addition to being an active member of the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin’s Social Services Committee, Alexandria is a member of the North Carolina Bar Association.

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