We all know texting at the wheel is bad. Same with doing your makeup or taking a call. But it turns out some of the biggest distractions while driving are the ones we don’t even think twice about.
New research from the RAC has revealed that “harmless” habits — like chatting with your mates or zoning out behind the wheel — are actually some of the top reasons people make driving mistakes.
The Real Reasons Drivers Mess Up
Over 6 in 10 drivers (63%) admitted they’d made a mistake because something inside or outside the car distracted them. And no, it wasn’t all phones and touchscreen controls.
- Talking to passengers was the #1 culprit. 43% of people said just having a conversation led to them messing up.
- Daydreaming or letting your mind wander came in second, with 37% saying it caused them to miss turns, speed, or nearly crash.
- Looking at stuff outside the car — like something going on by the roadside — distracted a third of drivers.
What’s wild is that most people don’t realise how risky this stuff is. Nearly half (46%) said talking on the phone was the worst distraction, but only 8% actually made a mistake because of it.
Under-25s: More At Risk
If you’re under 25, the numbers are even more worrying:
- 23% admitted making a mistake because they were using their phone.
- 55% said they still use handheld phones while driving — even though it’s banned.
Other stuff that’s causing problems:
- Touchscreens – 26% made mistakes using them.
- Twisting knobs and pressing buttons – 21% admitted slipping up.
- Eating or drinking while driving – 8% overall, but 18% of younger drivers.
- Smoking or vaping – More of a problem for younger drivers (11%) vs just 3% overall.
It’s Not Just a Minor Issue
Government stats show that in 2023, nearly 1,000 people were seriously injured or killed in crashes where something inside the car was the distraction. That’s over three times more than crashes caused by things outside the car.
RAC’s road safety expert Rod Dennis put it simply: “Talking to passengers or daydreaming may feel harmless, but they’re behind most driving errors. It’s easy to underestimate how much our mind can wander, especially on long trips. Even when our eyes are on the road, our brains can be elsewhere, which is dangerous.”
So, What Can You Actually Do?
Staying focused on the road is easier said than done, especially on long drives. But here are some quick tips:
- Keep convos chill – save the deep chats or arguments for later.
- Notice when your brain checks out – bring your focus back fast.
- Don’t mess with gadgets or settings while you’re moving.
- If you’re still using your phone at the wheel, stop – it’s not worth it.
Driving safely isn’t just about avoiding the “big” distractions — it’s about staying alert to the everyday stuff that sneaks in and steals your focus. The more switched-on you are, the safer you (and everyone else) will be.
