DWD can have deadly consequences. "Clearly, distracted driving has taken over our roadways, and our survey shows that no one is immune--no matter how safe they think they are," said Bill Windsor, associate vice president of safety for Nationwide. "In fact, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, distracted driving causes 80 percent of all accidents."

Why is DWD such a problem now? The survey found that the prevalence can be squarely blamed on technology and our societal mindset to be available at all times. Nearly half (48 percent) considered cell phones and other technology use to be the most dangerous distraction.

1. Cell phones have become dangerous because we use them not only to talk, but also to read and type text messages--all while trying to make a left turn into oncoming traffic or hurtling down an interstate highway at 65 mph. The problem is rampant. Nearly 40 percent of those 16 to 30 years old who own cell phones admit they read and write text messages while driving, which requires additional visual, cognitive and manual attention.

2. Almost two-thirds of drivers who own cell phones said their colleagues, friends and family expect them to be available by cell or other electronic communication devices at all times. Our current societal mindset and busy, on-the-go lifestyles were cited by 35 percent as the reason why people drive distracted. Specifically, multitasking was cited by 22 percent and having too much to do and too little time was cited by 30 percent.