How risky is distracted driving?

Abstract

We use data on fatal crashes to quantify the risk of distracted driving. We repurpose, extend, and improve a methodology used to estimate the riskiness of drinking drivers (Levitt & Porter, 2001). Our analysis suggests that distracted drivers are three times more likely to cause a fatal crash than focused drivers. We also estimate that distracted drivers represent three to four percent of drivers on the road at any given time. Further, we find that distractions associated with cellphone use are less likely to cause a fatal crash than are distractions from other sources. The externality costs between $0.02 and $0.05 per mile driven. The insurance surcharge for a distracted driving citation that could internalize the avoidable insurance losses is approximately $577 per year. Our work extends the literature on distracted driving and traffic fatalities. We believe our results can inform policymakers on the traffic-safety and economic consequences of distracted driving.