April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and a new report highlights just how far drivers are willing to push their multitasking limits — and common sense — behind the wheel.
While it’s no surprise that 86% of drivers admit to being distracted by technology (mostly their phones), the report uncovers a wider—and wilder—array of behaviors that make our roads more dangerous.
Among the top distractions: grooming. Nearly 27% of drivers say they’ve gotten ready for the day while driving. That includes changing clothes, shaving, applying makeup, and even painting their nails. Gen Z takes the crown here, with a staggering 50% admitting to touching up their look on the go.
Then there’s eating — and we’re not talking about a quick granola bar. A full 72% of drivers who eat behind the wheel confess to tackling meals that probably require a table and a bib. Think BBQ ribs. Or soup. Hot soup. (Cereal also isn’t a good call. “Always Sunny” covered it in Season 8.)
Possibly the most concerning trend? Filming content. Nearly three-quarters of drivers say they’ve either created or witnessed someone filming videos or making social media posts while driving.
It’s not all selfies and snacks. Emotional distractions like stress and anxiety also play a role. One in five drivers say stress from work, school, or relationships can pull their focus. It’s a reminder that mental distractions are just as risky as physical ones.
The report also maps out the most distracted driving states, with the Southwest lighting up red. California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado top the danger list. Florida, North Carolina, Michigan, and Connecticut also rank high, with additional hotspots throughout the South and parts of the Northeast.
In contrast, the safest drivers are mostly clustered in the less densely populated heart of the country — think Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, and Minnesota — with Maine and Vermont also getting high marks for safe driving habits.
So next time you’re behind the wheel, maybe skip the content creation, hold the hot soup, and save the charcuterie for later.
