… than any other age group

With students returning to university this past week, RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers has reminded younger drivers to switch their phones off while driving and stay alert on the roads.

RACT Insurance research, conducted in December 2016, has found people aged 18-29 are more likely than any other age group to drive above the speed limit and get distracted by items in the car such as the radio, GPS, or mobile phones.

The research, which is conducted annually, shows 18 per cent of young people admit to regularly using their phones when it’s not on hands free, up from 13 per cent in 2015

The latest report also shows 18 per cent of 18-29 year olds admit to checking their messages or emails on their phones while driving, an increase of 6 percentage points from 2015.

Mr Sayers said younger drivers are at greatest risk as they have not yet developed the skills necessary to handle complex traffic environments or judge risky situations properly.

“This can lead to situations like driving too fast for the conditions, following too closely behind other vehicles or running red lights,” said Mr Sayers

“When you pair inexperienced drivers with driver distraction such as attempting to read a text message, sending a Snapchat, or checking social media, you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

“The evidence is overwhelming, using a phone while driving is not only dangerous, but potentially deadly.”

According to the Road Safety Advisory Council distracted driving and inattention contributed to the deaths of 223 people and 1,289 serious injuries on Tasmanian roads in the 10 years to December 31, 2013.
“It’s a good idea for all drivers, not just younger drivers, to switch their phones to off or on silent when getting into the car so that they’re not tempted to use it,” said My Sayers.

“The fine for using a mobile phone in Tasmania is $300 and 3 demerit points. That’s quite a hit for a student trying to get their feet on the ground while also paying for tuition and books.

“Even the safest of drivers are at risk so it’s a good idea to practice defensive driving, focus on the road – even when traffic is at a standstill.

“In case an accident does occur, drivers should be sure to keep their car insurance up to date.”
RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers