Driving Distractions

Motorists believe putting on make-up in the car is almost as distracting as using mobile phones, a new study has revealed.

However, talking to passengers while at the wheel is not seen as a huge distraction, the AA-supported research from Middlesex University found.

Using mobiles and looking at maps or books were regarded as the biggest distractions, followed by grooming or putting on make-up and looking for objects.

On a scale of one to 10 - with 10 regarded as the most distracting - using mobiles scored 8.6 points, while listening to music was only 3.2 and talking to passengers only 3.8. Looking at maps or books scored 8.4 points, while using a sat nav rated only 4.3 points.

AA road safety head Andrew Howard said: "This analysis of driver attitudes towards distractions shows the message is getting through that taking a hand off the wheel while driving could be dangerous.

"Recent public awareness campaigns on hand-held mobile phones and prosecutions of drivers for drinking bottled water or eating food at the wheel have had an impact."

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David Urpeth from Irwin Mitchell said: "Many road traffic accidents are caused through people failing to pay proper attention to the road and their driving.

"This study highlights the risks faced by reducing the amount of concentration a driver spends on driving, especially for those activities that involve taking the eyes off the road.

"Despite the study apparently showing drivers are aware of these risks, many still act in ways likely to cause either themselves or other road users injury.

"I represent many people who have been injured or killed in road traffic accidents, many of which could and should have been avoided."

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident, you may be able to make a motor accident claim.