The dangers of distracted driving, particularly among Gen Z, are becoming increasingly apparent. While it's no secret that using a phone while driving is risky, the extent of the problem is shocking. According to the NRSW 2026 Australian Driving Behaviour Report, 50% of Gen Z drivers admit to taking photos or videos while driving, and 40% of Millennials confess to the same. This is despite the fact that almost two-thirds of Gen Z drivers and over half of Millennials admitted to reading texts while stopped at red lights. These findings are concerning, especially given the shrinking attention spans of young people, which have been linked to short-form content platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The report also revealed that drivers are quick to reach for their phones once a notification pops up, with 30% of Gen Z drivers and 28% of Millennials checking their phone within minutes of receiving a notification while behind the wheel. This is not just limited to texting and snapping photos; scrolling social media and watching YouTube videos while driving is becoming increasingly common. While 92% of surveyed motorists agree the habit is dangerous, frustrated drivers report regularly witnessing other road users glued to their screens. One Reddit post captured a driver mindlessly scrolling through Instagram while stopped at a traffic light, sparking a wave of online outrage over the dangerous habit. The consequences of being caught using a phone while driving are severe, with fines ranging from $410 to more than $1,000, and drivers can also lose up to 10 demerit points, depending on the state. National Road Safety Week founder Peter Frazer OAM said the research showed awareness campaigns alone were failing to change behaviour among younger motorists. He emphasized the importance of self-regulation and the need for drivers to actively protect everyone on the road. The dangers of distracted driving are clear, and it's up to all drivers to make the choice to get home safe, every day, with no exceptions.
