Distracted driving collisions up nine per cent in Northern Ireland
Collisions caused by distracted driving rose by nine per cent in Northern Ireland from April 2025 to March 2026.
Figures released by the Police Service of Northern Ireland revealed that 860 crashes were the result of distracted driving during this period, with 119 people killed or seriously injured.
That made ‘inattention for attention diverted’ the number one factor in collisions, accounting for 17% of all incidents.
Mobile phone use behind the wheel was the main reason for distracted driving, with 1,113 offences recorded in Northern Ireland over the year.
Research shows that drivers are four times more likely to be involved in a collision if they are using their phone, with reaction times three times slower than they are when driving under the influence of alcohol.
Other causes of distraction while driving include adjusting vehicle controls, eating or drinking, and interacting with passengers.
Dangerous driving
Ian Wilson, managing director at CompareNI.com said: “While dangerous driving is often associated with speeding or driving under the influence, data shows that distraction remains one of the biggest threats on our roads.
“Drivers must always be alert and make sure they don’t let anything inside or outside the car distract their attention, as taking their eyes off the road for even a couple of seconds can have devastating results.
“Many accidents are preventable, and staying focused behind the wheel is one of the simplest and most effective ways that motorists can protect themselves, their passengers and other road users.”
