The law is often behind developments in technology. Just as lawmakers try to catch up to the dangers of texting and distracted driving, a new concern regarding technology and car accidents is developing at least among younger drivers. Researchers say smartphone application use while driving is a developing driving hazard that parallels the dangers of texting and younger drivers use cell phone applications the most.

New research on cell phone use behind the wheel shows drivers are engaged in smartphone application use while driving in Pennsylvania and across the country. Traffic safety advocates and law enforcement officials are concerned by the development as research on the effectiveness of texting bans begins to emerge.

The study conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama in Birmingham found 35 percent of college students who have a smartphone use a smartphone application while behind the wheel. Ten percent of the students who participated admitted to using smartphone apps consistently while driving. The results of the survey support an earlier survey where one-quarter of adults who download apps admitted to using the apps when behind the wheel.

Though drivers have encountered distractions since the automobile was invented, the use of electronic devices behind the wheel presents a heightened amount of distraction. Drivers who text and use smartphone apps while driving take their hands off of the wheel and their eyes off of the road and focus their attention on the device. Typing a text message or using an app generally takes longer than turning the radio dial.

About one-third of Americans own a smartphone and as smartphone use increases, related distracted driving concerns will likely increase as well.

Source: Daytondailynews.com, "Phone apps distracting more young drivers, reports say," Cornelius Frolik, Aug. 2, 2011