McKinsey: One-third uses smartphone while driving

35% of car drivers use their smartphone while driving. In the large majority of cases the smartphone is used for calling (89%) and navigation software, such as TomTom or Google Maps (68%). In particular young drivers are inclined to breach the rules, finds a study by McKinsey & Company.

The dangers of using a phone behind the steering wheel are well known. Even a quick glance at an incoming call or new e-mail can be enough to take one's eyes off the road at the wrong time.

Among the 2.000 drivers surveyed by McKinsey & Company, 35% revealed that they do use their smartphones while driving. The consultants emphasize however that in reality the number is likely to be higher as some people are likely not to admit to violating the rules. Out of the drivers that confessed, 89% said they use their phone for calls, 68% for navigation, 39% for instant messaging, and 31% for e-mail or the web.

Young versus old

In the study, titled "Mobility of the Future", the management consultancy further found that younger people are more likely to use their smartphone in the car as they feel a "greater need to stay connected". 55% of those between 18 and 39 years old see in-car access to data as important, compared to just 27% for people aged between 40 and 69.