Update: PCI Responds to NTSB’s Call for a Ban

The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) responded to the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) call for a national ban on the use of cell phones while driving by commending the attention being given to the issue of distracted driving. The association also asserts the fact that cell phones are only one source of distraction for American drivers.

“Cell phone usage is only one of many bad habits that are distracting American drivers,” said Robert Passmore, senior director of personal lines for PCI. “Distracted driving is a serious problem, and in our increasingly mobile world, it is becoming the norm. As we have seen with other motor safety issues, such as seatbelt use and drunk driving, there is no single answer to addressing the problem of distracted driving. Finding the solution involves addressing distracted driving on multiple fronts, including laws, enforcement, public education and, primarily, personal responsibility.”

According to the Insurance Information for Highway Safety (IIHS), 35 states and the District of Columbia have banned texting while driving. Ten states have enacted hands-free laws restricting the use of hand-held cell phones. Beginner drivers are restricted from using cell phones in 30 states.

PCI’s response references a Harris Interactive/HealthDay poll that found that a majority of adult drivers in the United States admit to being distracted while driving. More specifically, 86 percent of adults admitted to eating/drinking while driving, 59 percent talk on a cell phone, 41 percent set or adjust their GPS device and 37 percent text. Additionally, 44 percent said they've felt sleepy while driving.

“This poll makes it clear that cell phones are not our only distraction,” said Passmore. Nevertheless, banning cell phones is still acknowledged to be a big step in addressing distracted driving as a whole.

“The pervasive use of cell phones and other devices while driving has changed how we operate in our cars. Too often, our cars have become high-speed mobile offices. We applaud the NTSB for helping to focus attention on this particular aspect of the issue and encourage drivers to keep in mind that navigation systems, eating and drinking as well as grooming can all serve as distractions that compromise safe driving.”