How many collisions are caused by distracted drivers?
A. Driver distraction is cited as one of the most common contributors to traffic crashes but the numbers vary depending on the study. According to a 2006 study published by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) the various forms of driver distraction are estimated to contribute in 8 out of every 10 crashes (NHTSA, April 2006). This figure translates into almost 4 million crashes per year. Estimates of a similar magnitude have been cited in other reports (NHTSA, 1997, Treat et al. 1979).
