A third of drivers 'text while behind the wheel'

Date: 28/9/2011

Just under ten per cent of motorists browse social networking websites, surf the web, use apps or read and send emails while behind the wheel of a vehicle, according to a new study.

Almost three in ten drivers also admitted to Brake and Direct Line that they text while in charge of a vehicle.

Such behaviour is despite the potential consequences that could come from sending or receiving texts while driving, such as a serious road traffic accident.

"We are concerned that the increasing uptake of this technology could lead to more crashes and casualties caused by distracted drivers, as is happening in the US," commented Campaigns Director at Brake Julie Townsend.

The road safety charity called on motorists to keep their mobile phones switched off and out of reach when behind the wheel.

A study conducted by TRL for the RAC Foundation concluded that when texting whilst driving, a motorist may be at a greater accident risk than when at the legal limit for alcohol consumption and driving, and it reinforced the message that young drivers should refrain from this dangerous activity.

Posted by Sarah Bailey