An new study by Jabra shows the most common distracting activities while driving, include texting, eating, personal grooming, changing clothes, operating GPS systems, yelling at other drivers, and even performing sexual acts. Only a small percentage (32%) of the survey respondents reported they're using a hands-free device, which is the law in many regions." The results of our survey show that so many people are distracted and doing other things while on the road - even though they know the consequences that can occur," said Jonas Forsber>, General Manager North America, Mobile Division, GN Netcom, Inc.
35 percent or respondents admitted that they have taken clothes off or put clothes on while the car is in motion and another 23% admitting to often styling their hair, but ultimately these acts are perilous, resulting in humiliating or more serious injuries.
The majority of respondents (72%) also admitted to eating food while driving.
Further survey findings include:
- 29% of respondents admitted to having kissed others while driving, whereas a smaller, but surprising number (15%) said they have performed sex or other sexual acts while driving.
- 28% confirmed they have sent text messages while driving.
- 13% reported they have applied makeup while driving.
- 12% admitted to having written or read emails while driving.
- 10% reported reading newspapers or magazines while driving.
- 5% confessed to having played video games, and another 5% say that they have shaved while behind the wheel.
Road rage in general appears to be a global issue, with 63 percent reporting that they yell at other motorists while driving - and the French appear to be the biggest offenders.
Young people (age 18-35) from all countries also appear to be engaging in bad driving behaviors with higher frequency, but at the same time don't feel that these activities are as dangerous as perceived by those who are older. Across the board, the Japanese are the worst offenders when it comes to personal grooming while driving and electronic distractions like video games, movies, audio books, and music devices. Alternatively, the British appear to be more safety oriented with the highest level of awareness around highly dangerous driving behaviors.
To learn more about the survey results and the driving behaviors examined, visit www.Jabra.com/DriveResponsibly for more information.