Canadian Millennials Think They are the Most Distracted Generation Behind the Wheel: Study

According to a new poll from Allstate Insurance, 80 percent of Canadians believe that drivers under the age of 34 are the most distracted.

The study, which was conducted by Leger, also found that 69 percent of younger Canadians admit that their age group is the most likely to be distracted while behind the wheel. IN a statement the Allstate Insurance President and CEO Ryan Michel said:

“When faced with tight schedules and temptation from smartphone notifications, drivers may find it hard to resist the urge to grab a quick bite while at the wheel or to sneak a peek at their devices. The data shows younger drivers are honest in recognizing the tendencies of their own peer group – but that self-awareness isn’t necessarily leading to changes in risky behaviour. This is why we’ve partnered with Young Drivers of Canada to help shed light on the need to instill and reinforce safe driving habits with all Canadians – even those who have yet to earn their license.”

The younger group of Canadians that responded admitted that their behaviours cause them to lose focus on the task at hand. Here’s a breakdown of the tasks that Canadians see as being their main distractions while on the road:

  • Eating (Under 34 years old: 68%, Nationally: 76%)
  • Drinking (Under 34 years old: 58%, Nationally: 68%)
  • Playing with the sound system (Under 34 years old: 59%, Nationally: 68%)
  • Looking at roadside distractions (Under 34 years old: 67%, Nationally: 77%)

However, the highest two factors of distracted driving highlighted by the study results are using a mobile device and grooming, which come in at an astonishing 94 percent and 93 percent respectively. The next largest distractions on the road are looking at roadside distractions and using a navigation system, which come in at 77 percent and 69 percent respectively. In a statement, Michel said:

“It’s inevitable to face distractions when driving – and it may seem impossible not to give into these distractions. Our aim is to make Canadians more aware of their behaviours and actions on the road. This is an important step to help keep our focus in the right place and our streets safe.”

Advanced Driving Centre for Young Drivers of Canada director Angelo DiCicco said that parents have a huge influence on how their kids will drive.

“Parents will always be a catalyst for how newly licensed drivers behave behind the wheel. It’s important that we as adults lead by example and teach the next generation of drivers how to behave and focus when it’s their turn to be in the driver’s seat.”

As we head into the March Break, one of the busiest travel times of the year, Michel wants to make sure that everyone is using safe driving habits and keeping their eyes focused on the road.

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