Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

texting while driving via Shutterstock
ring ring

New laws haven't deterred one-in-ten motorists from using their phone while driving

A new survey found that one-in-ten drivers text or talk on their phone.

AS MANY AS one-in-ten motorists are still using their mobile phone while driving, according to a new survey.

This is despite a ‘legal grey area’ being removed earlier this year which means texting while driving is now illegal.

The number of penalty points for the offence of using a mobile phone while driving rose from two to three on Friday.

A survey by easytrip analysed the habits of 1,000 motorists, and found that more than half texted or checked their phone, while 48% spoke on their phone.

“Three months on from the introduction of the new penalties for texting, and it seems that a lot of motorists are still ignoring the dangers,” general manager of easytrip Ciara O’Brien said.

Holding a mobile phone while driving, whether you’re talking or texting, increases your chance of an accident by up to four times and is lethally dangerous – that is why the new penalties are so severe.”

Younger drivers and women were more likely to text or check their phone, while talking on the phone was the illegal habit of choice for those aged between 40 and 50 and men.

More men than women were found to be using their phone while driving.

Since 1 May this year texting while driving has been illegal, as previous legislation was not clear on the issue.

However, it is still legal to use sat-nav software, and arguably to use a cup while driving, as long as it is done safely.

Read: Drivers caught speeding today will get more penalty points under new rules >

Varadkar: People are unlikely to browse the internet on a cup while driving >

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Your Voice
Readers Comments
46
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds