One in four Irish motorists browse the internet and read texts while driving, a new survey has claimed.
And 45% said they multi-task while behind the wheel - including doing makeup and eating.
The poll found 67% of motorists use their handset in one way or another, while 25% said it is one of the biggest distractions on the road.
In the survey, carried out by Liberty Insurance, 42% of drivers also admitted to breaking the speed limit when running late as opposed to 36% of UK drivers
Spokesman Sean Brett said: “The August Bank Holiday is one of the busiest weekends of the year on Irish roads and we urge all drivers to exercise responsibility and care when getting behind the steering wheel this weekend.”
The poll found 76% of drivers claim other motorists’ driving behaviours, including “phone us”, is among the most prominent distractions they experience.
Approximately one in five drivers also admit to using social media apps such as Facebook, Instagram, and/or dating apps while at a stop sign or red light.
Experts say drivers should make it a habit to put their phone somewhere out of sight like the glove compartment, or even activate the Do Not Disturb feature to avoid the temptation to reach for it while in the vehicle.
Mr Brett added: “No matter how experienced or accomplished a driver may be, once they pick up their phone or glance down to read a WhatsApp, their field of vision is immediately compromised, and they are endangering themselves and others.
“Our research found half of Irish motorists admit to keeping their phone visible while driving, which is significantly higher than their peers in the UK.”
