A new study released by Gruber Law Offices reveals an alarming increase in distracted driving across the United States, spotlighting a growing safety concern stemming primarily from smartphone dependence, inconsistent state laws, and limited awareness.
Using the most recent federal and telematics data from 2022, researchers analyzed distracted driving trends by state, crash type, and behavioral factors. The results show a steady increase in distraction-related collisions, injuries, and deaths, with distracted driving now occurring in nearly 60% of trips nationwide.
Key Findings from the Report
- 3,308 deaths were attributed to distracted driving in 2022, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Distraction-related collisions have risen by over 20% since 2020, leading to an estimated 1,000 additional fatalities and $10 billion in economic damage, according to data from Cambridge Mobile Telematics (CMT).
- Drivers now interact with their phones on 58% of all trips, compared to 54% in 2020.
- Phone motion and screen interaction increased by 21% and 23%, respectively.
“This is a national emergency on wheels,” said a spokesperson from Gruber Law Offices, a Wisconsin-based personal injury firm.
States with the Highest Rates of Distracted Driving
The study highlights the top ten states with the most frequent distracted driving incidents:
- Florida
- Texas
- California
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Arizona
- Nevada
- Illinois
- New York
- Colorado
States like California, Florida, and Texas not only have high driver distraction rates but also lead the nation in collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists, who are among the most vulnerable road users. In 2021, the U.S. recorded 7,485 pedestrian deaths, the highest figure in four decades.
Who’s Most Likely to Drive Distracted?
The study identifies teen drivers and young adults (ages 16–24) as the most frequent offenders. Nearly 40% of surveyed high school students admitted to texting while driving in the past month. Women, on average, are more likely than men to use handheld devices behind the wheel.
Distraction spikes during major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas and tends to be higher on weekdays due to routine commuting.
Top driving distractions include:
- Texting and phone calls
- Social media
- GPS navigation
- Eating and drinking
- Interacting with passengers or entertainment systems
The Role of Policy and Public Awareness
Encouragingly, states with hands-free laws have reported measurable success. Michigan, for example, saw a 12.8% drop in crashes within three months of implementing its 2023 law. Yet public awareness remains low: even in states with handheld bans, 40% of drivers are unaware of the laws or misunderstand them. In states without bans, over half of drivers incorrectly believe such a law exists.
Insurance & Telematics: Changing the Incentives
By early 2025, 30 states are expected to have handheld phone bans in place. Meanwhile, insurers are leveraging telematics technology to monitor and reward safe driving behaviors. According to CMT, engaged users of such systems reduce distracted driving behaviors by up to 25%.
However, a distracted driving conviction may still result in steep insurance premium hikes, coverage restrictions, or even non-renewals, reinforcing the long-term financial cost of unsafe habits.
Gruber Law’s Commitment to Road Safety
As a leading personal injury firm serving Wisconsin for over 30 years, Gruber Law Offices is committed to advocating for crash victims and promoting safer roadways through legal action, public education, and community partnerships.
About Gruber Law Offices, LLC
Gruber Law Offices is a premier personal injury law firm headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With a team of over 120 professionals and a track record of securing millions for injured clients, the firm is committed to fighting for justice in cases involving car accidents, wrongful death, product liability, and more.
