Driver distraction is continuing to be a big issue in Queensland after a Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) survey revealed that driver distraction is a growing concern with mobile phone use the key worry for surveyed members.
Queensland’s motoring body has called on motorists to keep their eyes on the road, after research revealed the majority of Queenslanders believed driver distraction was a growing problem.
More than 90% of motorists surveyed by RACQ say it is a bigger issue now than it was five years ago, and nearly 40% think mobile technology such as smart phones were to blame.
RACQ spokesperson Lauren Ritchie says it was concerning nearly one quarter of members admitted to getting distracted by a hand-held mobile phone while driving.
“Hand-held mobile phone use is unsafe and illegal. If you must use your mobile and you don’t have hands-free, it is imperative you pull over,” says Ritchie.
“It’s not worth risking your life or the lives of others to answer a phone call or read a text message while driving.
“We’re also concerned that half of those surveyed admit to losing focus on the road while adjusting the car stereo, and 45% while eating and drinking. Distraction contributes to around one quarter of car crashes, so it’s vital motorists become more aware of the risks,” she says.
Top reasons given by members for an increase in driver distraction:
- Mobile technology, 39.7%
- In-car technology such as GPS, 23.2%
- Being time poor and stressed, 9.6%
- Selfish and inconsiderate drivers, 5.2%
- Speed limit changes, and road works zones, 4.9%
Driver distraction is included as one of the fatal five key causes of crashes, in addition to speeding, fatigue, alcohol and drugs, and not wearing seatbelts.
Join the conversation