Americans are aware of the dangers of driving while using a cell phone.

But a new study says that 20 percent of drivers are still text-messaging behind the wheel. And 50 percent of younger drivers 18 to 24 admit to the practice.

Despite the risk, it's actually legal in most of the country. Only five states have laws on the books banning texting while driving. And some people complain that more laws aren't necessary.

But researchers say looking away from the road just for a few seconds can triple the risk of a crash.

"The crash risk when you're texting is in the neighborhood of the crash risk when you've had three to four drinks of alcohol," Prof. Donald Fisher of the University of Massachusetts said.

Experts say educating the public is crucial since a texting ban would be very difficult to enforce.