There certainly has been an increase in phone use over the decades. Some of the reason for this is simply that smartphones perform multiple functions. Your phone is also a computer, a camera, a calculator, a flashlight and much more. It replaces dozens of gadgets, so it’s going to see frequent use.
But there are those who will even continue to use their phone when it’s dangerous and detrimental to their life. One of the biggest examples of this is when someone will use their phone while driving. This is illegal, it’s dangerous and it makes accidents more likely. Are people who decide to do this anyway actually addicted to their phones?
Studies show that addiction can happen
Many people who use their phones frequently are not addicted. They may have a use disorder or, as addressed above, they may just be using their phone for many different things. It’s not usually a problem if it doesn’t have a negative impact on their life in some way.
However, studies have claimed that 16% of adolescents struggle with cellphone addiction. Those under 30 years old have the greatest addiction rates. Overall roughly 6.3% of Americans qualify as being addicted to their phones, according to the study.
What this suggests is that many distracted driving accidents may only happen because drivers are addicted. Similarly to how drunk drivers know that driving under the influence is illegal and yet do it anyway, distracted drivers will continue using their devices. Those who have been injured in these car accidents must know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills and other costs.