Dozens of studies done over many years have shown that performing a mental task such as having a conversation impairs driving performance. And the new research coming out is the first to look at what is going on in the brain of someone who is gabbling on a cell phone while driving.
Having a conversation on a mobile phone while driving, even with a headset and free hands, can make a driver as dangerous as someone who is has been drinking alcohol and then drives a new study seems to confirm.
Researchers have previously explored this territory, but Carnegie Mellon University scientists tried a new tact: they actually looked at the brain functions of someone while they were driving and using a cell phone.
Researchers used brain imaging to show that listening to a mobile phone significantly reduces the brain activity that occurs while a person is driving without any distractions. This drop in brain function increases driving mistakes – such as weaving out of the lane or hitting a curb, and has been the direct cause of many serious wrecks.
One should not drive and try to talk on a phone. If you must take a call, then pull off the road and park. Otherwise it is best to leave your phone off while you are driving and answer the calls only after you are no longer in transit.
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