122 Million American Drivers Face Health Risks Due to Commuting Habits, Study Finds
Is your commute putting your health at risk? Learn how unhealthy habits during long drives affect millions of Americans and what you can do to avoid the dangers
- 2-in-3 admit they choose their routes based on the availability of fast food drive-thru options.
- Respondents reported consuming an average of 420 calories during a single commute.
- Infographic showing America’s unhealthiest drivers.
- 2-in-3 admit they choose their routes based on the availability of fast food drive-thru options.
- Respondents reported consuming an average of 420 calories during a single commute.
- Infographic showing America’s unhealthiest drivers.
America’s Unhealthiest Drivers
Potamkin Hyundai’s study didn’t just stop at snacking habits; it delved deeper into the unhealthy behaviors of drivers, uncovering some startling insights. For instance, a remarkable 68% of drivers admitted that they choose their commute routes based on the availability of fast food drive-thru options. Additionally, 44% reported experiencing a ‘food mishap’ while driving that either caused a distraction or nearly led to an accident.
When it comes to risky behavior, respondents shared some of the most dangerous things they’ve done while driving to accommodate eating:
- Eating hot food that could spill or burn: 48%
- Driving with their knees: 32%
- Balancing a meal on their lap: 13%
- Eating with utensils while steering: 6%
Beyond the dangers, the study also shed light on the caloric impact of eating while driving. Respondents reported consuming an average of 420 calories during a single commute – a significant amount, especially for those with lengthy daily drives.
As for the reasons behind eating while driving, the responses were telling:
- To save time: 53%
- To avoid getting too hungry: 21%
- It’s a habit: 14%
- To cope with stress or boredom: 12%
Finally, when posed with a hypothetical scenario where their doctor advised them to stop eating while driving for the sake of their health, 43% of respondents stated they would ignore the advice, underscoring the deeply ingrained nature of these unhealthy habits.
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Study conducted by Potamkin Hyundai
