A new survey has found that the majority of the drivers on the Interstate 395 corridor connecting Washington DC and Virginia are engaged in multiple cell phone distractions while behind the wheel.

The survey, which included more than 1,000 drivers, found that nine out of ten drivers claimed to have used their cell phones while driving.

Following the report, the 495 and 95 Express Lanes operator Transurban and the Virginia Department of Transportation launched a new campaign called ‘Orange Cones. No Phones’ in a step to reduce distracted driving within the 395 Express Lanes work zones.

The majority of motorists in the DC area were reported to talk over the phone, check GPS or read text messages while driving.

Virginia Secretary of Transportation Shannon Valentine said: “In 2017, distracted driving accounted for almost 25% of traffic fatalities.

“The ‘Orange Cones. No Phones.’ campaign is an important component to help deliver safety on our roads and reduce incidents.”

“In work zones alone, VDOT recorded 2,666 crashes resulting in 1,329 injuries and 12 fatalities. The lives lost were completely preventable. We must continue to engage the public about the dangers of distracted driving.

“The ‘Orange Cones. No Phones.’ campaign is an important component to help deliver safety on our roads and reduce incidents.”

The survey said that one in five drivers involved in an accident or near accident was due to cell phone usage, while one of six drivers admitted to keeping their phones in their hand while behind the wheel.

One-third of the respondents said that the last time when they used their smartphone while driving was ‘today’.

The survey also revealed that hands-free talking while driving increased by 14%, compared to the 2014 survey.

Under the campaign, the partners will implement multiple initiatives to encourage reduction of cell phone usage while driving, including deployment of signs, increasing police presence and advertisements.

The 395 Express Lanes are expected to open next year.