Deadly Distractions: Shocking Habits Behind the Wheel Revealed

2024-10-17

Recent research from Finder has highlighted a troubling trend among Australian motorists: millions are multitasking while driving, putting not only their own lives but also those of others at risk. The survey of 1,013 respondents revealed that 54% of Australians admit to losing focus behind the wheel, which translates to approximately 11.2 million individuals engaging in dangerous and sometimes unlawful behaviors.

The Disturbing Results

The study uncovered a wide range of distractions, with eating food topping the list at 43%. This was followed by 20% of drivers who admitted to driving while wearing thongs—an alarming statistic indicating a casual attitude towards safety.

Here are some of the other shocking habits reported:

13% of Aussies text while driving.
11% scroll through social media.
7% have watched a TV show or movie.
9% have changed clothes on the road.
9% have kissed a loved one while driving.
9% have replied to emails.
7% have reached back to manage children.
6% have applied makeup.
3% have driven with their knees.
5% have attempted to shave.
Alarmingly, 2% admitted to having microslept while driving.

A Generational Divide

The survey also highlighted a generational divide in distracted driving habits. 67% of Gen Z respondents admitted to multitasking behind the wheel, with 24% openly texting while driving. In contrast, only 2% of baby boomers reported the same behavior.

According to Tim Bennett, a car insurance expert at Finder, this rise in distracted driving is a growing concern. He pointed to statistics from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE), which reported 1,322 road crash deaths in Australia over the past year—an increase of 9.2% from the previous year.

The Impact of Distractions

While not all these fatalities can be attributed directly to distracted driving, the implications are clear. Bennett emphasizes that there is no safe level of distraction when it comes to driving. "Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can have disastrous results," he warns. Everyday tasks like responding to emails or applying makeup can turn fatal when performed behind the wheel.

Bennett notes that some drivers mistakenly perceive their vehicles as "homes on wheels," leading them to engage in behaviors that could jeopardize the safety of everyone on the road. "What might seem harmless, like finishing your skincare routine or showing affection to a driving companion, can actually be very high-risk," he says.

Legal Consequences

The dangers of distracted driving extend beyond just the risk of accidents. Drivers caught engaging in these behaviors can face severe consequences, including fines, demerit points, and even prosecution if they cause a crash. For instance, in Victoria, using a mobile phone illegally incurs a minimum fine of $577 and four demerit points. In NSW, fines range from $410 to $544 and can lead to a loss of up to five demerit points.

While some distracted driving behaviors may not be explicitly illegal, they can still violate broader road rules concerning vehicle control. Eating while driving, for example, could result in a $464 fine and three demerit points, escalating to $581 in a school zone.

Conclusion

As we move forward, it’s imperative for all drivers to recognize the dangers associated with multitasking behind the wheel. The evidence is clear: distracted driving is a growing problem that endangers lives on our roads. By prioritizing safety and focusing solely on driving, we can work towards reducing accidents and fatalities. If the risk of injury or loss of life isn’t enough to deter distracted driving, perhaps the potential for hefty fines and legal repercussions will serve as a wake-up call. Stay alert, stay safe, and keep your eyes on the road.