Police Service of Northern Ireland data shows driver inattention or diverted attention was recorded in 17% of all road traffic incidents during the 12 months to 31 March 2026, resulting in 119 people killed or seriously injured.

The figures cover the period from 1 April 2025 and reveal that distraction was linked to 860 collisions, a 9% increase on the previous year.

Mobile phone use while driving remains a persistent issue, with 1,113 offences logged by police over the same timeframe.

A survey by comparison website CompareNI.com found that 54% of drivers have noticed an increase in other motorists using mobile phones. When asked about their own habits, 10% admitted to checking maps while driving, 9% to answering or rejecting calls, 3% to checking notifications, and 2% to changing music.

Ian Wilson, managing director of CompareNI.com, said the data underlines that distraction is a major road safety threat. He stated that many collisions are avoidable and warned that drivers convicted of careless driving can see their insurance premiums rise by up to 26% if they accumulate six penalty points.

The firm advises drivers to programme satellite navigation before departure, activate do not disturb mode on phones, and avoid eating or drinking at the wheel. Rule 148 of the Highway Code specifically cautions against eating and drinking while driving; a resulting careless driving charge can carry a fine of up to £5,000 and nine penalty points.

Drivers are also urged to set clear boundaries with passengers to minimise distraction.