A concerning rise in illegal mobile phone use among young drivers has been revealed, with one in ten admitting to the dangerous practice in the past year. New research from the RAC indicates that this figure represents an eight-year high for drivers aged between 17 and 24, underscoring a significant challenge to road safety across the UK.
The findings, part of the RAC's annual Report on Motoring, show that 10% of young drivers confessed to using a handheld phone illegally while behind the wheel. This marks a notable increase from 7% recorded in 2023 and a substantial jump from just 4% in 2022, suggesting a worrying upward trend in this particular demographic. The report surveyed 3,102 drivers across the country, providing a comprehensive snapshot of driving habits and attitudes.
While the overall proportion of all drivers admitting to illegal phone use has remained steady at 8%, the specific surge among younger motorists is particularly striking. This age group, often newer to driving and potentially more susceptible to distractions, presents a critical area of focus for road safety campaigns and enforcement efforts. The implications of these statistics extend beyond individual incidents, impacting the collective safety of all road users.
The illegal use of handheld mobile phones while driving carries severe penalties, including a minimum of six penalty points and a £200 fine. For new drivers, who are still within their first two years of passing their test, accumulating six points means their licence would be revoked, requiring them to retake both their theory and practical driving tests. Despite these deterrents, the research suggests that a significant number of young drivers are still taking the risk.
Experts attribute the continued prevalence of illegal phone use to a combination of factors, including the pervasive nature of smartphones in daily life and a potential underestimation of the risks involved. Distracted driving is a major contributor to road accidents, and the increase among young drivers could lead to a rise in collisions and serious injuries if the trend is not reversed. The RAC has previously highlighted the dangers, advocating for stronger enforcement and greater awareness.