Children 'distract 1 in 10 drivers'

26/08/11

Dan Smith

One in 10 drivers are distracted by their youngsters when out on the roads, new figures show.

According to Post Office research, the situation is even worse for those with younger children, as 20 per cent of people with youngsters aged four to seven often get sidetracked.

Of the parents included in the study, just 8 per cent reported that their children never prove a distraction to them.

Children are putting off the country's car owners in a range of ways. For instance, 58 per cent of respondents revealed their attention can wander from the road when their children talk to them.

However, Post Office Head of Car Insurance, Gerry Barrett, issued a warning to parents who try to overcome distractions with the help of expensive items of kit.

He said: "Parents carrying portable DVDs and music players to keep their children occupied should check their insurance policy to ensure these items are covered against theft and damage."