There has been an increase in the number of drivers using mobile phones, a new survey has found.
The 2023 Mobile Device Usage Observational Survey from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) found 9% of motorists were observed using a mobile phone - an increase on the figure of 6% in the 2022 survey.
The highest rate of handheld mobile phone usage was seen by drivers of light goods vehicles at 13%, with rates ranging from between 6% and 8% amongst drivers of other vehicle types.
Of the drivers using a handheld mobile device, 59% were using the device in hand and 41% were using the device at their ear.
Minister of State James Lawless (centre) with RSA CEO Sam Waide and Assistant Garda Commissioner Paula Hilman launch survey showing an increase in the number of drivers using mobile phones, 31-7-24. Image: Jason ClarkeMen were more likely to be using a mobile phone than women.
The study also revealed that 40% of those aged under-35 check notifications,or read messages on their phones 'at least sometimes' while driving.
The study also confirmed a rise in the incidence of speeding post-COVID.
Road safety appeal
The survey coincides with the RSA and An Garda Síochána launching the August Bank Holiday weekend road safety appeal.
It comes as the number of deaths on Irish roads this year surpasses 100.
The appeal is focusing on driver distraction and speeding.
Drivers are being reminded to slow down, remove any distractions when driving and to share the road safely with other users.
An Garda Síochána say they will have a "visible enforcement presence" across the country targeting drivers speeding and drivers under the influence of alcohol and drugs over the long weekend.
'Killer behaviours'
RSA Chief Executive Sam Waide said we are in danger of reversing recent progress.
"We need to reflect on our own behaviours on the road and how it impacts all road users," he said.
"These behaviours include speeding, mobile phone use, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and not wearing a seat belt. Alarmingly too many drivers are doing these daily.
"Drivers need to take responsibility and stop the killer behaviours.
"The fact of the matter is we are at-risk of reversing the progress we have made in road safety.
"While the figures are devastating, we must not lose hope - we should let this motivate us all to work together to do everything we can to reverse trends and save lives," he added.
The RSA is also publishing its review of road traffic fatalities for the first half of the year.
Between January to July there were 113 fatalities on Irish roads, an increase of 17 on the same period in 2023.
