Satnavs have overtaken mobile phones as the biggest cause of driver distraction on UK roads, according to new research from the RAC. The motoring organisation's survey of 3,102 drivers found that in-car navigation systems are now responsible for more driving errors than any other distraction, raising fresh concerns about technology meant to improve road safety.
Despite strict laws banning handheld mobile phone use whilst driving, smartphones remain the second most common source of distraction. The findings suggest many motorists continue to engage with their devices—whether handheld or hands-free—in ways that compromise their concentration on the road.
Front-seat passengers ranked third among the top distractions, with conversations and interactions pulling drivers' attention away from driving. The study also highlighted roadside advertising and external events as causes of momentary lapses in concentration, showing the wide range of hazards competing for drivers' focus.
The RAC is calling on motorists to take practical steps to reduce distractions, including programming satnavs before starting journeys and keeping mobile phones out of reach whilst driving. The organisation warns that distracted driving remains a major contributor to road accidents across Britain.
"These findings highlight how even technology designed to help drivers can become a hazard," the RAC noted. The research comes as road safety campaigners push for stronger enforcement of existing laws and better driver education about the risks of distracted driving.