75 Percent of Americans Want Loved Ones to Use Hands-Free Device While Driving and Talking on Mobile Phone
National Survey Reveals Widespread Interest in Safer Phone Habits for Drivers
SANTA CRUZ, Calif., May 24 -- A new national survey released today by Plantronics, Inc. shows that 75 percent of respondents wish their friends and family would use a hands-free device such as a headset while driving and talking on a mobile phone.
The survey, which underscores America's growing concern regarding individuals driving while talking on handheld mobile phones, also shows that 69 percent are concerned about other drivers talking on a mobile phone without a hands-free device.
The Plantronics poll, issued during National Wireless Safety Week, asked 1,000 adults about their mobile telephone habits while driving.
"Nearly half of the people surveyed use a mobile phone while driving, making wireless safety more of a priority than ever," said Beth Johnson, Plantronics senior director of product marketing. "Plantronics believes the most important thing is to help promote safer conditions for everyone by encouraging responsible use of mobile phones, and headsets are one way to help people drive more safely. Headsets enable drivers to keep both hands on the wheel, to feel more comfortable as they drive, and to hear and be heard better, all benefits that can contribute to improved driving safety."
On July 1, laws that prohibit the use of handheld mobile phones while driving will go into effect in New Jersey and Washington, D.C., continuing the nationwide trend of states devoting increased attention to driver safety laws. In 2001, New York became the first state to prohibit drivers from using a mobile phone without a hands-free device. In addition, measures similar to those of New York, New Jersey and Washington, D.C. are being considered by almost half of the state legislatures across the country.
"We're finding that, regardless of whether or not hands-free legislation has been passed in their state, people are taking a greater interest in driving safety," added Johnson. "In fact, our survey indicates that 77 percent of Americans agree that motorists should use hands-free devices with their mobile phones."
Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone -- handheld or hands-free -- unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road. For more safety tips, visit the Plantronics website at www.plantronics.com.
For a copy of the survey, contact Joanna Andrade at 408-571-2334. About Plantronics
Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company with approximately 3,350 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide. Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong's historic "One small step for man" transmission from the moon in 1969. Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 20 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the Company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling 800-544-4660.
