New research from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville is adding to the debate about texting and driving.
The study by a Mayo Clinic doctor shows text messaging creates a change in brain waves that hasn't been seen before.
“There’s no doubt about it; almost everybody you speak to has a smartphone,” said Dr. William Tatum, a professor of neurology at Mayo Clinic Florida.
Tatum said his research team found that in about 20 percent of their patients, texting actually triggered a new change in brain waves.
“Our research suggests that in fact when you text, based on whether it’s in the form of attention or concentration or emotion, it’s more than just simple distraction,” Tatum said.
“Your brain is in a different place, more so than just not paying attention to what you’re trying to do,” he said.
Dr. Tatum said his research results suggests that should change.
“Having a biological change in your brain rhythms seems an important feature for why individuals should not text and drive,” Tatum said.