Allstate Canada’s new report has revealed that many drivers in Quebec admit to distracted driving – but only a few are aware of the risk.

The report cites data from a recent poll conducted by Léger on behalf of Allstate. 1,013 Quebecers aged 18 and above, participated in the survey.

According to the poll, a staggering 91% of drivers surveyed in Quebec engage in risky behaviour while driving – 50% of that number confessed to talking on the phone through a multimedia hands-free function. Of the 91%, however, only 22% have admitted to being or recognize that they are distracted drivers.

Other findings of the report include:

• 38% of respondents use in-car functions to change music.
• 35% use the hands-free multimedia option to text or read emails.
• 34% try to reach for objects on the floor, glove box, or the back seat.
• 25% use their smartphones to make a call, text, email, or use social media.
• 23% operate their GPS while driving.

The insurer has suggested that technologies such as smartphones and GPS devices are causing more drivers to become distracted.

“. . . These technology-driven features may be providing more opportunities for distraction, as drivers could feel a heighted sense of safety and allow their focus to shift away from the road,” the Allstate report concluded.

“We can’t avoid new technology and the changes that come with it; and nor would we want to. Our cars are becoming safer,” commented Allstate Insurance Company of Canada regional claims director André Parra. “However, what we need to do is ensure it’s being used properly, as opposed to creating more distractions for drivers.”

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