Ireland: RSA study reveals higher level of mobile use among van drivers

Data from a new observational study by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) in Ireland has shown that drivers of vans are nearly twice as likely to use a handheld mobile phone compared to any other category of motorist.

The observational study, which included over 22,000 observations at 145 sites across the country, highlights a growing trend of distraction:

• Van drivers: Handheld usage among van drivers was 15%
• Overall increase: Across all motorists, the rate of handheld device usage rose to 8% in the latest survey, up from 6% in 2024.
• Usage type: Of those observed, 52% were holding the phone to their ear, while 48% were observed holding the device in their hand, indicating activities such as scrolling or texting.

ETSC continues to monitor how Member States integrate these findings into their national road safety strategies, particularly concerning the work-related aspects of road risk which are clearly reflected in the high rates among commercial van drivers.