AutoSense poll reveals high levels of driver distraction from touchscreens

A poll conducted by fleet and driver safety provider AutoSense involving 725 drivers across Australia and New Zealand has revealed significant levels of driver distraction caused by in-vehicle technology.

Among respondents driving vehicles equipped with touchscreens, 92 to 93 percent reported experiencing distraction while using them. Approximately 19 to 23 percent of these drivers stated that such distractions occur frequently. Common sources of diversion include adjusting vehicle controls like temperature or music, checking navigation systems, viewing in-car displays, and responding to work alerts or hands-free calls.

AutoSense CEO Charles Dawson noted that physical controls, such as knobs and buttons, are often preferred because they provide tactile feedback, allowing drivers to make adjustments without taking their eyes off the road. Dawson emphasized that distraction is a broad fleet risk, noting that even short glances at screens or navigation prompts can compromise driving concentration. The findings coincide with Euro NCAP’s 2026 assessment protocols, which will consider the usability and availability of physical buttons for essential vehicle functions.