The dangers of driver distractions post-lockdown have been revealed in a new webinar published by road safety organisations as they warn about increased risks.

Many drivers are likely to find it hard to leave their devices alone once lockdown restrictions are eased

According to traffic safety systems specialist Westcotec, we have all become reliant on digital communications during lockdown, and many drivers are likely to find it hard to leave their devices alone once restrictions of movement are eased and they can get back behind the wheel.

Speaking during the webinar, Westcotec managing director Chris Spinks said: “There will be a lot of people who haven’t been driving for weeks. We have all come to rely on digital technology taking the place of most face-to-face contact. That’s why we are concerned that this will become a new norm and that too many drivers will ignore the distraction risks of using their devices when they get back behind the wheel.”

Police and road safety organisations have already warned about ‘extreme’ speeding and risk taking, due to roads being quieter than usual.

GEM’s road safety officer Neil Worth also cautioned that drivers may have a false sense of confidence post-lockdown.

“We tend to be over-optimistic about our level of driving skill, at the same time as telling ourselves that bad things happen to other people – and that can be a lethal combination,” Worth explained.

“That’s why we are urging everyone – on every journey – to take personal responsibility for safety, banish distractions and focus solely on the task of driving.”

To access the 25-minute webinar, which also features Liz Johnson, road safety officer for Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police, for the discussion facilitated by Dr Leanne Savigar-Shaw of Staffordshire University, click here.