Illegal mobile phone use by drivers for activities beyond voice calls has surged to an eight-year high in the United Kingdom, matching levels last seen in 2018. A survey commissioned by the RAC reveals that 15 per cent of motorists admitted to browsing the internet, sending text messages, or posting on social media while behind the wheel.
Alarming trends among young drivers
Even more concerning, 9 per cent of respondents reported watching, recording, or livestreaming videos while driving. This figure rises sharply to 27 per cent among drivers under the age of 25. The data underscores a dangerous disregard for road safety, particularly among younger motorists.
Conviction rates on the rise
Home Office statistics show that 40,723 convictions were recorded in England and Wales for handheld mobile phone use while driving in 2024. This is the highest number since 2016, indicating that enforcement efforts have not deterred illegal behaviour. Road safety experts have expressed deep concern over this upward trend.
In 2024 alone, 21 people lost their lives in crashes where mobile phone use was a contributing factor. The RAC and other organisations are calling for tougher penalties and better education to combat this dangerous practice. The full report highlights the urgent need for action to reverse this worrying trend.
