Drivers most distracted by mobiles

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Drivers who use hand-held mobile phones are more distracted than those who put on make-up in the car, according to a survey of motorists.

But talking to passengers while at the wheel isn't seen as likely to lead to many car insurance claims, the joint study from Middlesex University and the AA found.

Using mobiles came joint top as the worst distraction along with studying maps or books, followed by personal grooming and looking for objects.

AA road safety head Andrew Howard said: "This analysis of driver attitudes towards distractions shows the message is getting through that taking a hand off the wheel while driving could be dangerous.

"Recent public awareness campaigns on hand-held mobile phones and prosecutions of drivers for drinking bottled water or eating food at the wheel have had an impact."

Middlesex University's Professor David Ball said: "These findings show that our perception of the risk of being distracted while driving is tempered by thoughts about the fairness and familiarity of in-car distracting activities. For this reason, legislation prohibiting the use of hand-held phones has been popular.

"However, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that other activities which absorb our attention, mentally and physically, while driving, also impact upon road safety, possibly more so."

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