A recent press release issued by NRMA Insurance reports that Generation X drivers talk while behind the wheel more than any other age group.  In fact, the insurance company found that 52% of those in the Generation X age bracket admit to chit-chatting on the phone while driving.  These new findings go against the grain of what many had assumed, which is that Generation Y drivers were likely to be the biggest behind-the-wheel talkers.  In reality, only 37% of Generation Y drivers admitted to talking on the phone while driving.  Of those over the age of 40, on the other hand, only 24% admit to using their phones while driving.

“While we were surprised that Generation X scored so highly,” said John Hallal, who is spokesperson for NRMA Insurance.  “The figures are a concern for all age brackets.”

Obviously, cell phone use while behind the wheel is a concern for everyone on the road.  Regardless of the technology used, research has shown that drivers who use their cell phones while driving are at a greater risk of being involved in an accident.

“And although many mobile phone users do tend to use hands-free technology while driving, the conversation always has the potential to distract the driver from what is happening on the road,” continued Hallal in the press release.  “We are therefore reminding NSW drivers that a busy lifestyle should not compromise safe driving habits.  If you lose focus while behind the wheel, even if it is only for a split second, the consequences can be serious.”

Another surprising finding was hat men are more likely to use their cells while driving than females.  In fact, 36% of the men responding to the survey admitted to talking while driving, while only 29% of females made the same claim.  Nonetheless, for the safety of everyone on the road, both of these figures should be greatly reduced.

“We are encouraging all drivers to stop in a safe place to make a call or send a text and then continue the drive with your mind focused on negotiating the traffic,” advised Hallal in the press release.

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