Texting behind the wheel impairs driving skills more than being drunk or high, according to new research carried out by British researchers.


The study was done by the UK's Transport Research Laboratory for the Royal Automobile Club Foundation.

The RAC Foundation and TRL used TRL's driving simulator to research the effects of writing, reading and ignoring text messages on the driving skills of a test group of 17- to 24-year-old motorists. In all key measures of driving performance, young people who were texting and driving were badly affected.

Reaction times deteriorated by over one-third (35%). This was worse than alcohol at the legal limit (12% slower) and driving under the influence of marijuana (21% slower)

In addition, drivers drifted out of their lane more often. Steering control was 91% worse, compared to 35% worse when under the influence of marijuana. The ability to maintain a safe following distance also fell.

TRL's experts concluded that "In real world traffic situations, it is suggested that poorer control of vehicle speed, lateral position, and increased reaction times in this situation would increase the likelihood of collision dramatically."

Comparing the level of distraction caused by texting to previous TRL studies into the impairment effects of drugs, alcohol and speaking on a cell phone, the report concludes that texting had the greatest impact on lane positioning, and the second greatest impact on reaction times, second only to using a hand-held phone, making texting while driving more risky than driving while on drugs or under the influence of alcohol.

TRL provides independent and impartial world class research, consultancy, advice and testing for all aspects of transport. Originally established in 1933 as part of the UK Government, TRL privatized in 1996 to become a fully independent private company. TRL is wholly owned by the Transport Research Foundation.