NASHVILLE, Tenn.--A recent study examining data from the National Highway Traffic Administration finds Tennessee is the worst state for distracted driving.
Personal finance research and analysis companyValuePenguinstates they examined data recorded from 2015 to 2017 and the number of fatalities cited as distracted driving.
The study examined the number of distracted driving deaths per 10 billion vehicle miles, finding nationally, the rate of distracted driving deaths was 1.49 fatalities per 10 billion vehicle miles.
They also found the highest rates were found in states shich had lax handheld cell phone laws. Tennessee, which does not have a handheld ban outside of school zones while lights are flashing, led all states with a rate of 7.20 deaths per 10 billion vehicle miles. That total was nearly double Delaware's which came in second with 3.28 per 10 billion miles.
The state does have a bill which would maketalking on a handheld device while driving on any roads subject to a fine. HB44 is currently making it's way to safety committees in the state house and senate.