Swedish study: Education more effective than cell phone bans

Posted on April 11, 2012

Informing motorists on risks associated with using handheld communications devices while driving and providing drivers with safer techniques for using these devices might be more effective than passing laws to prohibit their use entirely, according to a report released recently by the Linkoping-headquartered Swedish National Road and Transport Institute. The report suggests that a combination of various risk management strategies such as providing accurate safety information regarding handheld communication devices to motorists and helping them to use cellphones more safely could offer more benefits than passing legislation to outright ban cell phone use while driving.

The reports authors suggest that traffic collision statistics do not provide adequate evidence that cell phone prohibition laws reduce the risk of distracted driver related auto collisions, at least in part because motorists often ignore such laws. Countries that allow cell phone use with hands free devices, the study’s research shows, do not see a significant decrease in the number of traffic collisions caused by cell phone use.

Sweden is one of only a few European nations that does not currently restrict the use of handheld communications while operating a moving motor vehicle. Other countries allowing drivers to use cell phones without hands-free devices include Malta, Albania, Serbia, and Moldova.

As a San Jose car accident attorney, I hope that every measure is taken that will effectively increase the safety of motorists. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident linked to a distracted driver, please consider contacting a San Jose personal injury lawyer.

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