Introduction

In November 2018, Budget Direct undertook a study on distracted driving – titled ‘Distracted Driving Study Proposes a Promising Way Forward’. This NRSPP Thought Leadership document provides a summary of the motives behind this study, the key findings of the study, and the key conclusions of the study, including the plan for a way forward in combating driver distraction.

Motivations Behind the Study

Although operating a hand-held mobile phone in any capacity while driving is illegal in all Australian states and territories – carrying fines of between $250 and $54811 and a loss of up to five demerit points – many drivers have continued to use them anyway. While the nature of the activity makes precise statistics hard to come by, previous research has estimated that anywhere between 61% and 77% of Australians use their phones for any purpose while driving.

About the Study

A new study commissioned by Budget Direct, with research being undertaken by The Centre for
Accident Research and Road Safety – Queensland (CARRS-Q), has provided valuable insight into the nature, extent, and causes of this issue, while also suggesting promising ways to address distracted driving in Australia.

Click the link below for the full Thought Leadership