Almost 80% of people admit to engaging in distracting behaviour while driving, new research by Aviva Insurance has found.
The survey found that 31% use map apps while driving, 30% eat and drink behind the wheel, and 15% adjust dashboard screens while on the road, reports Breaking News.
A further 10% admit to using their phones at red lights, while 7% use social media or reply to messages while driving.
In 2025, nearly 24,500 mobile phone offences were recorded by gardaÃ, an increase of 11.5% on the previous year, reports Breaking News.
In the same year, Road Safety Authority figures show that road deaths reached their highest level in over a decade, reports Breaking News.
Product lead at Aviva Insurance Ireland, Julie Frazer, said: “This research shows how easily everyday habits can become safety risks,” reports Breaking News.
“Using map apps, adjusting touchscreens or checking messages at traffic lights has become normal for many people, but even a quick look at a screen can take your eye off the road long enough to miss a hazard or react too slowly,” reports Breaking News.
The survey, carried out by 3Gem Research and Insights on behalf of Aviva, questioned 1,000 drivers about their driving habits, reports Breaking News.
Gardaà have been using an unmarked heavy goods vehicle known as the “supercab” to catch drivers engaging in distracted driving.
Other countries in Europe, such as the UK, have introduced AI-powered cameras to combat the behaviour, but gardaà do not expect that approach to be introduced in Ireland any time soon, reports Breaking News.
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.
