Transport for Scotland has announced a major new technology to detect distracted drivers, the first of its kind to monitor mobile phone usage and seatbelt wearing.
The technology has been deployed with an aim to monitor driver behaviour, collect data to inform future road safety strategies and provide further understanding of such risks behind the wheel.
In recent research conducted by Slater and Gordon, 33% of Scottish residents believe distraction, such as mobile phone use, is one of the leading causes of road incidents. In Edinburgh specifically, this statistic rises to 65%.
Our research also uncovered other unsafe behaviours. 23% of Scottish residents adjust their in-car settings whilst driving, meanwhile 17% say they have listened to music or the radio so loudly that it affected their ability to hear their surroundings.
Distractions at the wheel are not to be taken lightly. As serious injury lawyers, we see far too often the consequences that distractions have – where everything can change in an instant.
The rollout of this new technology will absolutely make a significant difference. We can gain a truer picture of which common bad habits and poor driving behaviours drivers are becoming too comfortable with.
Whilst the results might paint a shocking picture, they are paramount to making change.
Once Transport for Scotland gains further understanding of such behaviours, they can understand the priorities that need addressing to reshape road safety awareness, and ultimately create an effective plan to avoid casualties and injuries occurring on the road.
Remember, distractions are not only physical. It’s worth addressing how fatigue and emotional stress can also be distracting factors.
17% of Scottish respondents they have driven whilst tired or drowsy, and 14% of Scottish respondents admit to driving when emotionally distressed.
These issues are known to impair reaction time and decision‑making, causing a danger to yourself, your passengers and others on the road.
I have the greatest confidence that the new technology will have a significant impact on road safety and saving lives – such technologies can also be brought to the rest of the UK.
Stuart Cochran is principal lawyer and head of serious injury at Slater and Gordon
