AAA releases new study on distracted driving

A study released by AAA on Thursday finds that not only are hands-free phone calls while driving a distraction, but that regaining full awareness after a call may take close to 30 seconds. A training

News 12 Staff

Oct 23, 2015, 2:22 AM

Updated 3,328 days ago

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A study released by AAA on Thursday finds that not only are hands-free phone calls while driving a distraction, but that regaining full awareness after a call may take close to 30 seconds.
A training video produced by an auto dealer for the Mazda 6 shows that the vehicle has options for calls, redials and other amenities. AAA says the Mazda 6 has the most distracting hands-free system available.
But even with better systems, research shows that hands-free calling, texting or updating your Facebook page will always compromise your driving, even at a red light.
AAA says a driver is most distracted for one second after using a hands-free device, and full situational awareness returns after 27 seconds.
Automakers and smartphone manufacturers have spent millions of dollars designing better ways for people to multitask while behind the wheel. However, AAA says the very idea of multitasking while driving is dangerous.