Nearly nine out of ten women (89 percent) say being well organized in their car helps them keep their eyes on the road, according to a recent survey of adults who own or lease a car. The survey was conducted by Harris Interactive(R) on behalf of the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company. Additionally, 30 percent of female drivers surveyed, ages 18-34, say they have either had, or almost had, an accident because they were reaching for or looking for something in their car.
The survey findings of U.S. women who own or lease a car include:
"Car organization can be an important factor affecting driver distraction," said Laura Soave Stoppa, brand manager, Lincoln Mercury. "Keeping this in mind, we've developed for the Mercury Mariner, our all-new compact SUV, a Cargo Management System that helps keep everything in its place and handy for easy access."
The study also found that most women who own or lease a car believe they are somewhat or very organized (80 percent), yet many have trouble keeping their car organized and wish they had more storage space.
For most drivers, a car is like another living space. The Mariner is an option for people with active lifestyles who look for the little 'extras' in cars that make their ride more enjoyable. "That's why we've designed the Mariner with creative spaces for carrying additional items -- both large and small,"said Soave Stoppa.
The Mercury Mariner's rear cargo area allows for larger items, such as sports equipment and children's toys with a retractable cargo area cover, two open storage bins, four tie-down hooks, and rear seats that can be folded flat to create additional rear cargo space. In addition, an enclosed storage bin in the front floor console, an overhead console with a storage bin, and a large deep pocket in each front door provides ample space for smaller items such as maps, sunglasses, purse or wallet, or CDs.