Greek drivers: 8 out of 10 break speed limits, 92% think everyone else drives dangerously

76% of Greek drivers talk on the phone while driving and 84% use smartphone apps while driving, according to a recent survey by Ipsos for the Vinci Autoroutes Foundation of 12,400 people in 11 European countries.

With regard to Greece specifically, the Eurobarometer 2023 study showed that in recent years, Greeks have not only been talking on the phone while driving, but also participating in video filming while driving. The majority (92%) of Greek drivers believe that all other drivers are dangerous, while at the same time 8 out of 10 speed.

Bluetooth use is widespread and its threat to road safety underestimated, the survey found, as 58% of Greek drivers use the technology.

9% of Greek drivers admit to driving under the influence of alcohol, and 15% had an accident due to excessive drinking. In addition, every tenth driver was driving under the influence of cannabis or other drugs.

In terms of sleepiness while driving, 26% of Greek drivers confirm that they fell asleep at the wheel even for a few seconds, and 2 out of 10 drivers had or were close to getting into an accident due to lack of sleep.

On the other hand, Greek drivers are very short-tempered behind the wheel: 63% admitted to getting into arguments with other drivers, 60% honked for no reason, 24% got out of the car to argue, and 86% were frightened by the aggressive behavior of other drivers.

In terms of speed enforcement, in addition to the fact that 8 out of 10 drivers speed, 44% do not wear a seat belt while driving. 6 out of 10 Greek drivers do not keep a safe distance from other cars and tend to drive close to the one in front.

As Panagiotis Papanikolas, Director of Vinci Concessions Greece and Board Member of the Vinci Autoroutes Foundation, said, “This year’s Road Safety Eurobarometer results once again raise critical questions about safe driving and highlight new dangers, such as the ever-increasing use of electronic devices while driving. As a result, all of us, involved in the road safety sector must renew their commitment and knowledge while serving the lives and physical integrity of road users.”

[amna]

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