Are Drivers Who Use Cell Phones Inherently Less Safe?James E. Prieger () and Robert W. Hahn Applied Economics Quarterly (formerly: Konjunkturpolitik), 2007, vol. 53, issue 4, pages 327-352 Abstract: Mobile phone usage while driving is increasing throughout the world. In this paper, we use survey data from 7,268 U.S. drivers to estimate the relationship between mobile phone use while driving and accidents. We hypothesize that drivers who use mobile phones while driving may be more likely to get into accidents than drivers who do not, even when they are not using the phone. We find evidence for the endogeneity of mobile phone and hands-free device usage, and our analysis suggests that individuals who are more likely to use hands-free devices are more careful drivers even without them. Once we correct for the endogeneity of usage, our models predict no statistically significant increase in accidents from mobile phone usage, whether hand-held or hands-free. Our results call into question previous cost-benefit analyses of bans on mobile phone usage while driving, which typically assume that such bans with have a salutary effect. Keywords: cellular telephones and driving; safety regulation; selection effects (search for similar items in EconPapers) There are no downloads for this item, see the EconPapers FAQ for hints about obtaining it. Related works: Ordering information: This journal article can be ordered from Access Statistics for this article Applied Economics Quarterly (formerly: Konjunkturpolitik) is edited by Christian Wey and Klaus F. Zimmermann More articles in Applied Economics Quarterly (formerly: Konjunkturpolitik) from Duncker & Humblot, Berlin |
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