Insurer Budget has released new survey findings as new tougher penalties for Australians using their mobile phone behind the wheel take effect in Queensland.
Starting this month, the fine for offenders increased from $400 to $1,000, while demerit points increased from three points to four.
In its 2020 survey of 1,001 Australians, including 218 Queenslanders, Budget Direct found that 11.49% of respondents feel less confident texting while driving, compared to 14.9% in 2018. Furthermore, respondents aged 35-44 feel most confident behind the wheel, at 22.61%, compared to 10.43% of those aged 18-24.
Findings also showed that many Australians, at 31.97%, believe tougher penalties are the most
effective way to deter drivers from texting. This figure, however, was the lowest for Queenslanders who also think this is the least effective measure, compared to increased awareness, mobile detection cameras, law enforcement, and no measures.
“While the absolute numbers are low, the finding that the 35-44 year age group is engaging with
handheld devices (particularly texting and accessing social media) more frequently than other age
groups is really interesting and highlights that there is a shift in technology use across driver ages – this is not just a 'young driver problem' as it has traditionally been viewed in the past,” said Kristie Young, senior research fellow for the Monash University Accident Research Centre.
“Other social pressures to use a phone are also going to be playing a role for this 35-44 age group, including work pressures to stay connected while driving, pressure to connect with children, and just generally trying to multitask in order to make the most efficient use of time in an increasing time-poor society.”
