Eating Whilst Driving – More Dangerous Than Using A Mobile

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Eating Whilst Driving – More Dangerous Than Using A Mobile

April 19, 2012

New research by Leeds University suggests that eating whilst driving is as risky as using a mobile phone.

Research undertaken by the University showed that the reaction times of drivers who ate while driving were 44% slower than normal. Curiously a study carried out by the Transport Research Laboratory shows that drivers texting whilst driving had their reaction time reduced by as much as 37.4% in comparison. This study also showed that drivers at the legal alcohol limit had reaction times reduced to 12.5% and a hands-free mobile conversation reduced reaction times by as much as 26.5%.

What is interesting is that activities such as smoking, eating and drinking while on the move is not illegal, however, using a mobile phone to text, email or make a (non-hands free) call is.

In spite of this it should be noted that motorists can be charged with careless driving if the police believe that they are not able to control their vehicle whilst eating, drinking or smoking.

Fair Pay Insurance urges young drivers to be careful on the road - to reduce the likelihood of an accident as well as avoid having to claim on their young drivers insurance.

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/9197930/Eating-while-driving-more-dangerous-than-using-phone.html