Driver overconfidence is becoming a serious issue on the roads, leading to risky behaviors that endanger everyone. A recent survey by Nationwide reveals some alarming statistics about how drivers are distracted while behind the wheel.
According to the survey, 20% of drivers admit to texting while driving. Additionally, 15% use social media, 13% watch videos, and 11% read or write emails while driving. These figures highlight a growing trend of distraction that many drivers seem to overlook.
Half of the drivers surveyed confessed to eating or drinking while driving, and 13% said they use that time to get ready for work. Many drivers (47%) believe that the rise of built-in touchscreens in vehicles for communication and entertainment is making distractions worse. Casey Kempton, Nationwide’s president of personal lines, pointed out that many people think they are immune to distractions or that a quick glance at their phone won’t cause any harm.
Interestingly, while 8 in 10 drivers rate their own driving skills highly, only 15% feel that other drivers are “very good” or “excellent.” This disconnect suggests a widespread belief among drivers that they are safer than those around them. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 consumers think other drivers are using their phones more, driving faster, and behaving more recklessly.
The survey also showed that driving is stressful for many. Over a third of respondents cited reckless driving, traffic jams, and navigation challenges as major stressors. A significant number of people reported witnessing road rage, with 72% saying they often see aggressive behavior from other drivers.
Despite these concerns, opinions on distracted driving laws are mixed. Many consumers are unsure if current laws are effective, and only about 40% are aware of new regulations or increased penalties that have been put in place in their states recently.
One potential solution to combat distracted driving is the use of dashcams. The survey indicated that 94% of drivers believe dashcams could provide valuable evidence in case of accidents. However, only 20% of drivers have installed them in their vehicles. While 13% have AI-powered dashcams, only half find them helpful, while 13% find them distracting.
Interestingly, many drivers showed interest in programs that reward safe driving. About 70% said they would consider enrolling in such programs, especially if it meant saving money on their auto insurance or earning gift cards.
As the number of distractions on the road continues to rise, it’s clear that both awareness and effective measures are needed to ensure safety for all drivers.