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-Editorial
Long car commutes have long been associated with negative health outcomes, and a recent study by Potamkin Hyundai sheds light on the extent of the issue, revealing that California’s long-distance drivers are among the unhealthiest in the nation. Prolonged hours on the road contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of weight gain, cardiovascular problems, and chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. This problem is further compounded by stress, reduced physical activity, and disrupted sleep.
The study combined publicly available health data with a survey of 3,000 drivers to outline a profile of “America’s Unhealthiest Drivers.” Leading the pack are Maryland and Arkansas, where 92% of drivers admit to snacking on junk food during their commutes, representing about 4 million unhealthy drivers across the two states.
California drivers fared poorly as well, ranking 15th nationwide for unhealthy driving habits. A staggering 81% of California’s long-distance commuters regularly consume junk food while on the road, amounting to an estimated 14.8 million drivers. Respondents reported consuming an average of 420 calories during a single commute, a significant number for those with daily drives.
The top five states with the unhealthiest drivers are led by Maryland and Arkansas, where 92% of drivers snack on junk food during their commutes, representing 2.86 million and 1.20 million drivers, respectively. Mississippi follows closely with 91% (1.12 million drivers), while 88% of drivers in Louisiana (1.75 million) admit to the same habit. Georgia rounds out the list, with 84% of its 4.2 million drivers regularly snacking on junk food while on the road.
The study didn’t just focus on snacking habits but also explored dangerous behaviors associated with eating while driving. An alarming 68% of drivers said they choose their commute routes based on fast food drive-thru availability. Additionally, 44% admitted to having a “food mishap” while driving that caused a distraction or nearly led to an accident. Risky behaviors included eating hot food that could spill (48%), driving with their knees (32%), and even eating with utensils while steering (6%).
As for the reasons behind these habits, 53% said they eat while driving to save time, while 21% do so to avoid getting too hungry. Despite the potential health risks, 43% of respondents stated they would ignore their doctor’s advice to stop eating while driving.
The top five states with the healthiest drivers, where snacking on junk food during commutes is less common, are led by New Hampshire, with only 43% of drivers admitting to the habit, accounting for 311,248 individuals. Utah follows with 56% (898,445 drivers), while Connecticut and Nebraska tie at 60%, with 1.08 million and 602,782 drivers, respectively. Washington rounds out the list, with 63% of its 2.35 million drivers snacking on junk food during their commutes.
The study serves as a stark reminder of the health risks associated with long commutes and highlights the need for healthier commuting habits.
