Cell phones causing more traffic accident

WASHINGTON - A new study says drivers using cell phones are causing an increasing number of car accidents. But they say the value people place on being able to call from the road roughly equals the costs of the accidents. <br> <br> Harvard researchers are calling it a growing public health risk. <br> <br> The study suggests that drivers talking on their phones are responsible for about six percent of U.S. auto accidents each year -- killing an estimated 2,600 people and injuring 330,000 others. <br> <br> But those who oppose banning cell phone use by drivers say the benefits outweigh the toll from accidents. Cell phone owners cite security and peace of mind for instant communication, increased productivity, privacy and quicker reporting of crimes and accidents. <br> <br> The study&#39;s lead author admits an individual has a small risk of being in an accident caused by a driver who is talking on the phone. <br> <br> The cell phone industry criticized the study as ``assumptions built on assumptions.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Cell phone subscribers have grown from 94 million in 2000 to more than 128 million.

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