Driver distraction issues

A new report highlights driver distraction issues.
By MJ Woof March 30, 2022 Read time: 1 min
Surveys reveal that many drivers risk using cellphones at the wheel – image © courtesy of Mike Woof
A survey of drivers in Canada reveals that many are continuing to use cellphones at the wheel, despite this now being illegal. According to the survey carried out in British Columbia, 42% of drivers asked admitted using their cellphones while driving for 10% or more of journeys.

At the same time, 93% of the drivers in the survey are aware texting at the wheel is dangerous and 84% recognise that using a cellphone to make a call while driving is dangerous. Research shows that cellphone use at the wheel presents similar risks to drivers being under the influence of drink or drugs.

Crash data from British Colombia reveals that distracted driving is a factor in 25% of fatal crashes. The authorities are looking to implement further enforcement measures in a bid to reduce the casualty rate. Tackling distracted driving is seen as a key task to improving road safety.
Highway & Network Management

Related Content

  • Brazilian road works planned
    April 19, 2022
    Brazilian road works are being planned.
    Read More
  • Mobile River Bridge project proposed
    April 13, 2021
    A new proposal for the Mobile River Bridge project has been put forward.
    Read More
  • Pan-European enforcement of driving laws due
    September 30, 2013
    Pan-European enforcement of driving regulations should catch offenders and help improve Europe’s road safety - Mike Woof reports. Agreements are being reached that will see Pan-European enforcement of driving regulations. Drivers will now face being penalised for any offences committed in other European countries. The change is due on 7th November 2013. After this date EU Member States will commence the cross border exchange of data relating to road traffic offences. For this scheme to work, eight offences
    Read More
  • Using smartphones when driving is more dangerous than drink driving
    April 20, 2012
    Using smartphones for social networking while driving is more dangerous than drink driving or being high on cannabis behind the wheel according to research published by the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) in the UK. Despite this, eight per cent of drivers admit to using smartphones for email and social networking while driving. Twenty-four per cent of 17-24 year old drivers, a group already at higher risk of being in a crash, admit to using smartphones for email and social networking while driving.
    Read More

Highlighted Content