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NSW drivers in GPS distress
18/12/2009
As we head into the Christmas road trip season, NRMA Insurance is encouraging NSW drivers not to get frazzled with their GPS, after research revealed that 62% of drivers blame the technology for getting them lost*.
According to the insurer, the issue is most relevant in NSW where GPS popularity is the strongest in the country, with almost one in three adopting the technology (30%).
NRMA Insurance spokesperson Emily Gatt said that GPS technology itself was less to blame than its hot-headed users.
“Having a GPS can be a real comfort when you’re in an area you’re not familiar with, and is far safer than juggling a traditional road map while driving,” said Ms Gatt.
“As we know, technology isn’t always a hundred per cent accurate, but rather than pulling over and calmly reprogramming our GPS, we’re finding that almost 30 per cent of us are getting into a frazzle and having an argument with our passengers!”
Ms Gatt said that these ‘carguments’ could have something to do with our inability to trust technology.
“Almost half of drivers don’t feel they can trust their GPS to give them accurate directions,” said Ms Gatt.
“Whether this feeling is justified, or whether people simply think they know better than their GPS, is unknown.
“What we do know is that the features of your car should never compromise safe driving habits, and if you lose concentration while behind the wheel, even if it’s only for a second, the consequences can be serious.”
Ms Gatt advised drivers to avoid dangerous situations by resisting the urge to reprogram their GPS while driving.
“With so many of us hitting the road over the Christmas break, we’re reminding drivers that if you think your GPS is giving you the wrong directions, pull over in a safe place before reprogramming it,” said Ms Gatt.
“And if you know you’re prone to GPS distress, maybe it’s a good idea to take along a traditional road map as back up.”
* Based on attitudinal research carried out by Pure Profile in September 2009.