It's no surprise teenagers are distracted easily while behind the wheel.

A new study finds those distractions can have devastating consequences.

A Children's Hospital and State Farm Insurance conducted a major survey. They talked to teenagers to see what happens when they ride around with friends.

89 percent of teens talk on the phone. 85 percent listen to loud music and 93 percent say they act wild while riding along with their friends.

These statistics are just one reason the state wants to protect inexperienced drivers.

Many teenagers can't wait to turn 16 so they can finally get behind the wheel.

”When you're in high school you try and get away from your parents. Having a car gives you extra freedom," says student Justin Denton.

That freedom comes with a cost. Statistics show traffic accidents now account for more teen deaths than any other cause.

Authorities say driving and distractions don't mix.

“Students mostly don't drive very well. People are on their cell phones, changing the radio, paying attention to other people, calling other people," says student Jamie Stueve.

Denton says “Some of my friends drive great, other ones horrible. It’s all about how you were brought up and learn how to drive."

Nebraska lawmakers have a few ideas for improving safety among teenage drivers.

They include: Banning teens with provisional operator’s permits from using cell phones while driving, limiting the number of passengers and requiring schools to teach driver's education.

It's something they have been doing in Council Bluffs for years.

Harv Vannordstrand is a driver’s education instructor.

“You try to teach them good skills and attitude is the total key," says Vannordstrand.

Harv Vannordstrand sees a reduction in crashes in Council Bluffs he attributes it to the hands-on training students receive.

He says there's something even more important than class.

Vannordstrand says “If we have parents who are committed to success and well being of children they won't be doing this."

Sam Heighthoff just received his license.

He believes all his training will allow for a smooth ride.

"I just want to do a good job and don't do anything stupid," says Heighthoff.

Lawmakers will go over all these proposals within the next few weeks.

The driver's education teachers Channel 6 News spoke to say everyone could benefit by buckling up before driving.

For more information on driver safety go to the reminders board on the Channel 6 News web site.