Surfing the internet is a favorite pastime for many. Until recently, that activity could only be done in behind a computer. With the introduction of smartphones and tablets to the masses however, that has all changed. It is now possible to participate in the activity anywhere one is able to wirelessly connect to the internet. As Pittsburgh area readers are likely aware, that is many places.

One of those places is behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. As is the case with talking and texting while operating a car, this is another form of distracted driving. Recognizing the seeming growth of the trend, State Farm recently conducted a study on the matter. It looked at habits of drivers between 2009 and 2012.

The study found that overall, during that period of time, the number of drivers using the internet increased 8 percentage points, up to 21 percent. While young people of course contributed to that number, the statistic took into account drivers of all ages as the behavior is not limited those in the younger age demographic. This is an issue because distracted driving is one of the biggest reasons for car accidents.

There are likely several reasons for the jump in drivers surfing the web. The biggest reason is probably the widespread availability of smartphones. They seem to be the standard these days. Another contributing factor is most likely the lack of laws banning the activity. While many states have laws forbidding similar distracted driving activities such as talking or texting while on one's phone, there is nothing yet to address webbing.

Source: MSN Autos, "Distracted driving due to Web surfing is on the rise," Nov. 26, 2012