A new study from New Jersey auto insurance group, Plymouth Rock Assurance, found many younger drivers may be mimicking their parents when it comes to distracted driving behaviors.

Distracted Driving
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The study polled 1,000 Digital Natives, the first generation born into a digital world, and found 25 percent of young drivers have witnessed a parent texting while driving.

"Fifty-seven percent have witnessed a parent using a phone without the hands-free technology, and more than 70 percent have seen a friend texting and driving," said Gerry Wilson, president and CEO of Plymouth Rock Management Company of New Jersey.

He said these young people are "living in a world where texting and driving, distracted driving is commonplace and it's just too acceptable."

Wilson said there was a time when drinking and driving or not wearing a seatbelt was a lot more commonplace than it is today, and people had to be educated to develop a more responsible view - and this needs to happen now with distracted driving.

The poll also found that 82 percent of drivers thought New Jersey should impose a heavier penalty for texting while driving. "There's a higher awareness of the dangers of distracted driving than there was five years ago, but more needs to be done," said Wilson.

To raise awareness about the issue, Plymouth Rock Assurance will attempt a Guinness World Record for most pledges to a safety campaign on Sept. 21 at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson.  Drivers interested in signing the pledge can visit www.FightDistractedDriving.com.

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