With the school holidays underway in some states, new Compare the Market research has uncovered Australian’s worst driving habit admissions.
Most Australians surveyed admitted to eating or drinking behind the wheel, followed by speeding over the limit, and being distracted by other passengers.
The findings come as Compare the Market data revealed most Australian capitals are experiencing a high fuel price cycle during the school holiday period, with Brisbane and Melbourne currently averaging more than $2 per litre for unleaded petrol*.
Australian’s worst driving habit admissions
| Driving habit admissions | Proportion of responses |
| Eating/drinking behind the wheel | 27.0% |
| Speeding | 24.1% |
| Being distracted by other passengers in the car | 21.5% |
| Driving under the speed limit | 18.4% |
| Road rage | 13.6% |
Further research from the car insurance comparison experts also found 61.2% of Australians have been the victim of road rage incidents in the past 12 months, including:
- Use of angry gestures: 5%
- Tailgating: 6%
- Yelling and shouting: 3%
Please find quotes attributable to Compare the Market’s spokesperson Chris Ford below.
“It’s no surprise to see these findings as spring school holiday road trips are in full force – drivers are often distracted by kids, people resort to eating or drinking while driving to save time, and tensions inside the car can spill onto other road users,” Mr Ford said.
“Often, staying calm behind the wheel is best to stay safe on our roads during this busy period.
“We’re often reminded to make sure the car is maintained and roadworthy before going on a road trip, but it’s worth reviewing your car insurance cover as well.
“Make sure the policy’s listed drivers are up to date, as well as the kilometre limit and, of course, shop around for a more competitive deal.
“Compare the Market often find differences in the hundreds, sometimes thousands, for insuring the same car with a similar policy. That can go a long way in fuel and if you’re entertaining kids over the holidays.”
Compare the Market commissioned PureProfile to survey a nationally representative sample of 1,016 Australians in September 2025.
*According to daily average retail prices for 91 RON unleaded petrol on 21 September 2025.
When referencing this research, please attribute: https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/car-insurance/
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For more information or a state-by-state breakdown, please contact:
Henry Man | [email protected] | +61 474 368 908
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