New study shows using a phone while driving may be the biggest factor in crashes

The fatal crash rate in the United States is decreasing. But recent studies show driver behavior is getting worse, and technology is the culprit.

A report by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institutefound that using a phone while driving may be the biggest factor in car accidents.

“I have my children in the car and I’ve almost gotten into accidents due to people who are driving distracted, so it’s actually very concerning,” Elisabeth Martinez said.

The study looked at more than 3,000 drivers through video cameras and sensors. They found that holding a cellphone increased the chances of a crash by 3.6 times.

In Salinas, using a cellphone while driving is the most common violation.

“More than speeding, more than running red lights, we write more tickets for people using their cellphones,” Salinas Police Department Sgt. Gerry Ross.

The study also found that driving while tired and drowsy also increased the likelihood of crashes, along with driving while emotional and under the influence.

“We’re finding more and more people driving under the influence of drugs,” said Ross said.

The department is increasing their efforts this year to train more officers on how to identify drivers behind the wheel who are high.

“The drug recognition experts, that is a very intensive class,” said Ross. “They are very good at knowing what kind of drugs people are under the influence of and if they’re under the influence.

Law enforcement said you should turn off your phone or ringer or put your phone somewhere that you can’t reach so you will not be tempted to text or answer the phone.