Four-wheelers worse than they think: survey

Avatar photo

TORONTO, ON – Canadians seem to think they’re good drivers, but that isn’t stopping them from bad habits behind the wheel — including using cellphones, flossing, and being intimate, a new survey conducted for belairdirect has found.

Ninety-five percent of those who were surveyed by Leger Research said they’re good drivers, but almost as many (93%) admitted to engaging in at least one bad habit behind the wheel. Identified bad habits included eating and drinking, using a cellphone, applying makeup, and even being romantic or intimate. Fourteen percent admitted to the romantic interludes, and 3% admitted to flossing.

Drivers identified the top three riskiest behaviors on the road as being under the influence (89%), distracted driving (54%), and fatigue (42%).

Drivers aged 18-44 were most likely to admit to using a cellphone, updating a map or GPS, removing an article of clothing like a jacket, or apply makeup while driving. Three in 10 drivers overall admitted to driving through a red light and disobeying road signs.

If they thought they would earn a monetary incentive, drivers were most willing to give up bad habits that involved using cellphones, such as sending a text, checking the phone, or making a call. They were reportedly less enthusiastic about stopping habits such as changing the radio station, turning to talk to another passenger, or sip a beverage while driving. About one in 10 drivers were not willing to give up any of their habits, even if a monetary incentive was involved.

The survey also found that 54% like to sing while driving, and 96% would not steal another driver’s parking spot.

Leger Research surveyed 1,551 Canadians between July 24-27 for the results.

 

Belairdirect provides home and auto insurance.

Avatar photo

John G. Smith is Newcom Media's vice-president - editorial, and the editorial director of its trucking publications -- including Today's Trucking, trucknews.com, and Transport Routier. The award-winning journalist has covered the trucking industry since 1995.


Have your say


This is a moderated forum. Comments will no longer be published unless they are accompanied by a first and last name and a verifiable email address. (Today's Trucking will not publish or share the email address.) Profane language and content deemed to be libelous, racist, or threatening in nature will not be published under any circumstances.

*