We reported this week that new research indicates cell phone-using drivers might actually be safer drivers.

What gives?

The study, based on California data from 2005, notes that as mobile calls went up after 9 p.m., reports of crashes went way down. Of course, as we noted, people don't drive as much after 9 p.m. too.

Some of our readers weren't convinced the new study held water, either.

Commenter Paul S. says idiot motorists who have almost killed him while he rides his bike were almost always talking or texting. ” … They seem to be surprised that I was there instead of showing anger or vindictiveness,” he wrote.

Our commenter of the day, Rodney, meanwhile, brings the statistical pain:

“I really don't think that the study is accurate or for that matter, from official experts. Many traffic safety surveys as well as studies have already emphasized the dangers of texting or talking while driving. According to the NHTSA, in 2008, the practice of texting or talking while driving is estimated to have caused 22 percent of all motor vehicle crashes, which would account to about 1.3 million auto accidents.”

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