New Research Shows Vanity a Driver Distraction for Gen Y

Around half of Generation Y drivers in admit to being distracted by their own appearance while driving according to new research.

Perth, Western Australia (PRWEB) May 6, 2009 -- New research* commissioned by leading car insurance provider SGIO reveals that the younger the driver, the more likely they will be to check their appearance in the mirror, with females being the biggest offenders.

SGIO State Manager Colin Tierney said the research provided some interesting insights into what WA drivers were doing behind the wheel.

With so many of us leading busy lives, the car sometimes becomes a place where we catch up on little things that we don't have time for during the day

And while it's difficult to argue that a quick glance in the mirror can put you and other road users in danger, anything more than a glance could prove hazardous.

Quickly tidying up the hair when stopped at the lights is usually harmless, but many tasks can be dangerous if they divert our attention from the road ahead

Ideally, a busy lifestyle won't compromise safe driving habits, as losing focus behind the wheel, even if only for a second, can have serious consequences

"And while it's difficult to argue that a quick glance in the mirror can put you and other road users in danger, anything more than a glance could prove hazardous."

Mr Tierney said a good example of hazardous behaviour was applying make up while driving, with about one in eight female drivers aged 30 to 39 admitting to doing so.

"Quickly tidying up the hair when stopped at the lights is usually harmless, but many tasks can be dangerous if they divert our attention from the road ahead," he said.

"Drivers need to be aware of their limits and putting on your make up in the car is one task that is definitely best to do either before or after driving.

Mr Tierney said that the SGIO research also revealed that a small number of male respondents had actually admitted to shaving while driving.

"Ideally, a busy lifestyle won't compromise safe driving habits, as losing focus behind the wheel, even if only for a second, can have serious consequences," Mr Tierney said.

SGIO: admitting to checking appearance while driving*:

Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722 trading as SGIO.

For many insurance products a Product Disclosure Statement is available from SGIO which you should consider before making decisions about those products.

Insurance issued by Insurance Australia Limited trading as SGIO 46 Colin St, West Perth, Western Australia 6005. sgio.com.au

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