Multi-tasking usually refers to a computer doing more than one thing at a time, but a recent U.S. survey finds that the concept is becoming more common as people drive.
The Progressive Auto Insurance found that 69 percent of the nearly 30,000 Americans surveyed say they eat behind the wheel, 44 percent use cell phones, 12 percent apply makeup or shave, and seven percent read a book or newspaper.
As well as being distracted while driving, today's North American drivers are also angry while being at the wheel. Nearly half (46 percent) of respondents said they expressed their anger at other drivers while behind the wheel by shouting or swearing, using hand gestures, cutting off other drivers, or speeding.
"It's a reflection of our society that we try to do more than just drive when we're on the road," said Dave Pratt, consumer marketing director at Progressive, "but it's important that your full attention be spent on driving when you are behind the wheel. Perhaps our busy lifestyles, combined with more traffic and congested roadways, is why nearly half of the drivers express anger." Pratt believes that, "Becoming too emotional and too preoccupied with other drivers is just another way to get distracted and potentially lead to accidents."
The survey found that 74 percent of SUV drivers and minivan drivers report eating behind the wheel, more than any other type of vehicle, and SUV drivers are the most likely to use a cell phone while behind the wheel.