Study: Distracted driving deemed socially unacceptable among young drivers

A new survey shows that young drivers think it’s socially unacceptable to drive distracted.

This data is among the results of tiremaker Bridgestone Americas Inc.'s annual survey that polls more than 2,065 drivers aged 16 to 21 nationwide.

Of those drivers, 80 percent said sending texts and emails is "unacceptable." But our distracted-driving epidemic isn't solved yet; 37 percent admit to still doing it. Also, 50 percent say they talk on a cell phone without a hands-free device, and 9 percent post on social media sites while behind the wheel.

Still, Bridgestone thinks it's a step in the right direction.

"Our hope is like with seatbelt campaigns: It will one day surface in actions, not just awareness," said Kristin J. Robinson, a Bridgestone spokeswoman.

The study is posted below, but here are some other stats that stand out:

- Sixty-five percent of young drivers admit to driving while drowsy.

- Despite reported decreases in issued driver's licenses, 68 percent still said getting a license was a milestone they looked forward to a lot.

- Sixty-three percent model driving patterns after their parents.

Now, to some more encouraging news: Bridgestone is shelling out $50,000 in scholarships to the top-three winners of their annual "Teens Drive Smart" video contest.

Students ages 16-21 are tasked with creating a 25 to 55 second video that encourages peers to make good decisions behind the wheel. Submissions must be uploaded at teensdrivesmart.com by June 20. The best 10 videos are posted online for viewer votes, and the three best-voted videos will win college scholarships: First place earns $25,000, second earns $15,000 and third earns $10,000.

Each Teens Drive Smart winner will also have the chance to have his or her video used as a public-service announcement on television stations across the United States.

By Angie Fisher