Failing to concentrate behind the wheel, it has been suggested, makes drivers more at risk for causing accidents and possibly seeing their motor insurance premiums rise.
According to a new study conducted by Sainsbury’s Car Insurance, many drivers tend to distract themselves by eating and drinking while in control of a moving vehicle.
Drivers also confessed to other bad habits including speeding, using mobile phones and driving while feeling tired, the firm reported.
Ben Tyte, Sainsbury’s manager, urged motorists to give driving “their full attention” and not be tempted to engage in anything that could distract them.
He also added: “The possible consequences of not concentrating when on the roads are very serious indeed, not just for the driver, but other road users, passengers and pedestrians.”
AA Insurance last month urged drivers to take extra care as the snow and ice gripped the UK’s road network.
Director of AA Insurance, Simon Douglas, said the weather was creating hazardous conditions for motorists.

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Many motorists have been caught unprepared for the big freeze we have had and van insurance customers and other motorists have been urged to check the condition of their vehicles before heading out onto the roads in bad weather.
Servicing Stop shows a record number of breakdowns have been witnessed during this weather. The firm says that in many cases, motorist have been unprepared for the cold weather, despite advance warning.
They urge drivers to maintain their vehicles and check the operation of all exterior lights and keep them clean, as well as cleaning the windshield and all windows regularly.
Servicing Stop also recommends wiper blades should be looked at and the washer reservoir topped up frequently.
It is also necessary to check tyre pressure and tread depth before journeys, the firm added, while a spare set of wheels may come in hand on snow-covered roads.
Servicing Stop also suggests drivers should keep an emergency kit in their vehicles and also ensure they have plenty of de-icer.
The RAC recently urged drivers to take additional care when making journeys during the winter.

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A second bout of cold weather as people return to work after the holidays could double the number of accidents on UK roads.
According to Swiftcover, a car and motorhome insurance firm, the expected increase in accidents today will result from a combination of bad weather and millions of extra cars on the roads during rush hour.
Adding to the pressure on Britain’s roads is the school run, which accounts for 18 per cent of peak traffic.
According to Swiftcover, the increase in claims made during the first two working days of 2010 will be much more than the standard 21 per cent rise in claims associated with the winter months of November to February.
Underwriter director at Swiftcover, Craig Staniland, said that many motorists fail to adapt to the conditions and drive too quickly. “Drivers should take this onboard as they head out onto the roads on January 4th and 5th; leave a bit earlier and drive more carefully. That way you hopefully won’t see the New Year in with your car in for repair.”

Co-operative Insurance urged drivers to plan ahead when making journeys by car.

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Weather conditions this winter will be a serious concern for about 48% of motorists, according to a new study.

Saga Motor Insurance states driving in snow and ice is the biggest fear for 39% of drivers, while heavy rain is the biggest fear for 25%.

Another 32% fear being on the roads in foggy conditions, with the over 50 most concerned about fog.
They also report that 17% of motorists will be staying home or using public transport during bad weather.
One-fourth of the women will choose to drive less during the winter, compared to 8% of the men, according to this new study.

Executive chairman at Saga Group, Andrew Goodsell said that from a car insurance perspective, the older drivers are safer drivers.

He added: “In the winter, their ability to adapt their driving to the conditions means that they are even less likely than at other times of the year to have an accident than younger more carefree motorists. We urge all drivers to check the weather forecast before they venture out, and if they are at all worried, to use alternative means of transport.”

The Transport Research Laboratory earlier last week warned that more drivers are using mobile phones behind the wheel, increasing their risk of having an accident.

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