Recently released figures show that distracted drivers were the cause of nearly a fifth of all road crashes in Northern Ireland over the last year.

The PSNI records reveal that ‘inattention or attention diverted’ is the primary cause of road traffic collisions here, accounting for 17 per cent of incidents recorded over the last year and leading to 119 killed or seriously injured (KSI) casualties.

Driver distraction was linked to 860 crashes on our roads between April 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026 – a rise of 9% over the previous 12-month period.

The latest findings highlight the importance of staying focused and alert behind the wheel, as even a momentary lapse in concentration can have serious consequences.

Recently released figures show that distracted drivers were the cause of nearly a fifth of all road crashes in Northern Ireland over the last year.

placeholder image — Recently released figures show that distracted drivers were the cause of nearly a fifth of all road crashes in Northern Ireland over the last year.

Whether it is adjusting vehicle controls, reaching for a drink or managing noisy passengers, evidence shows that taking eyes off the road for just two seconds can double the risk of crashing.

Mobile phone use is one of the most common distractions for drivers, with 1,113 offences recorded in NI over the last year. Drivers are four times more likely to be in a crash if they use their phone, with reaction times being up to three times slower than drink driving.

With regards to the overall accident trend, Derry and Strabane District Council area recorded 54 KSI crashes in 2025 /2026 with five of the eleven council areas recording over three times this number.

The latest figures prompted the local insurance comparative site, CompareNI.com, to conduct a local driver survey. This found that more than half of drivers (54%) said they’ve noticed an increase in other motorists using mobile phones, while some drivers admitted to occasional lapses such as checking maps (10%), answering or rejecting calls (9%), checking phone notifications (3%) or changing music (2%).

Whether it is adjusting vehicle controls, reaching for a drink or managing noisy passengers, evidence shows that taking eyes off the road for just two seconds can double the risk of crashing.

Offering advice, Ian Wilson, car insurance expert at CompareNI.com said: “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.”

Set navigation routes before driving

If using a sat-nav, the route should always be programmed before starting your journey. If changes to the planned route are needed, pull over safely before making them.

Put mobile phone out of reach

Turn on ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode before setting off or better yet, place the handset out of reach where you are not tempted to check it when driving.

Avoid eating or drinking

Rule 148 of the Highway Code specifically advises drivers to avoid eating or drinking. If this causes you to become distracted and lose control of your vehicle, you could be charged with careless driving – which carries a fine of up to £5000 and up to nine penalty points.

Minimise use of in-car screens and controls

Many modern cars have touch screens rather than buttons, which can take driver’s attention away from the road for longer than many realise. Reaction times to hazards when selecting music using in-car systems have been found to be worse than texting while driving.

Manage passenger distractions

From chatty front-seat passengers to misbehaving children, having other people in the car could affect your concentration behind the wheel. It is important to set clear boundaries with your passengers so that your attention isn’t taken away from the road.