Using a hands-free device can be just as dangerous as talking on a cell phone when it comes to auto accidents, according to recent reports.
The groups Public Citizen and the Center for Auto Safety recently reported that they had obtained government documents under the Freedom of Information Act showing that researchers had known since 2003 that using either device can lead to more danger on the roads.
A statement from Public Citizen noted that many states have passed laws in recent years based on the belief that talking on hands-free devices is safer than using a cell phone. According to the organization, researchers have found that having a conversation while driving can cause "inattention blindness," which slows drivers' reaction times.
Public Citizen also indicated that drivers were more likely to talk on hands-free devices for longer periods of time and to have more frequent conversations.
The report comes at a time when many states have been moving to hold down accident rates and auto insurance costs by cracking down on various forms of distracted driving, from texting to talking on cell phones.
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Posted: July 21, 2009
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