A survey, conducted by Roy Morgan, has revealed that 60% of Australians are streaming or playing music while driving, compared with just 11% who are texting,
And that’s a worrying statistic according to Slater and Gordon‘s Head of Work and Roads Claims, Peta Yujnovich.
“Streaming music is a distraction that’s just as dangerous as texting and often requires looking at your screen and scrolling to find the playlist or song you are looking for,” Ms Yujnovich said.
“If you’re on a restricted licence – either a learner driver or P1 P-plater and under 25, you should not be touching your phone at all behind the wheel or using voice-activated technology. It’s illegal for younger learner and P1 drivers to use hand-held or hands-free, Bluetooth or voice-activated mobile phone while driving. They cannot use the loudspeaker function and neither can their passengers.”
Ms Yujnovich said that while the respondents were of all ages, the results could indicate a lot of younger drivers could be at risk on our roads.
“That split second you reach for your phone could cost you more than just a fine. Young drivers are over-represented in road crashes and frequently use apps to select music and podcasts,” Ms Yujnovich said.
“Streaming music or using popular music apps in your phone while driving puts yourself and other road users at risk of devastating injuries and even death. It’s alarming that so many road users admitted to using their phone while driving for accessing music, with only a smaller amount admitting to texting.
Ms Yujnovich said drivers of all ages should remember it’s illegal to hold a mobile phone or have it resting on any body part while driving – even if you’re stopped in traffic.
