Distracted driving is a major problem on the road, killing thousands of people each year and injuring hundreds of thousands of others. Distracted driving behaviors include anything that takes your attention away from the road while you're driving. Texting and using a cell phone in other ways is one of the main culprits behind distracted driving. Now, a new study suggests that certain personality traits may predispose some to engage in distracted driving.

The study required 120 drivers to take a personality test and complete a questionnaire about their distracted driving behaviors. The drivers were divided into two groups that traditionally have higher rates of distracted driving: teens and older adults. 

The study found that for teens:

• Those with higher levels of openness and conscientiousness had a higher risk of using a cell phone while driving. 
• Those with lower levels of agreeableness had a lower risk of using a cell phone while driving. 

For older adults, the study found:

• Those with higher levels of extroversion had a higher risk of using a cell phone while driving. 

According to the authors of the study, this information could be valuable for creating targeted anti-distracted driving campaigns. 

This of course is not to say that only extroverted, open or agreeable people drive while distracted. And certainly the people in the other car don't have to be extroverted to become injured by someone else's negligence. But the study provides some perspective about behaviors that could lead to an accident, as well as a general reminder for all people to leave their cell phones alone while driving. 

If you've been injured in a car accident, it's very possible that distracted driving may have played a role. Regardless of the personality of the driver, it's important that you contact a personal injury attorney who can help you secure the compensation you need to recover.