Gen Z Redefines Distracted Driving — And Road Safety — With Technology

While Gen Z drivers often face criticism for their relationship with technology, new research suggests they are leveraging tech more responsibly than many might expect — even if they still engage in risky behavior behind the wheel.

A new survey of 2,000 American drivers, conducted by Talker Research for Lemonade during Distracted Driving Awareness Month, found that Gen Z is leading the way in using car-specific settings like Drive Mode, CarPlay, and Android Auto. More than half (56%) of Gen Z respondents said they typically activate these features, compared to just 18% of baby boomers.

“Regardless of how often Americans are driving, staying focused behind the wheel is one of the most important things any driver can do — for their own safety and everyone elses,” said Sean Burgess, Chief Claims Officer at Lemonade. “We all get tempted by distractions, but its clear younger drivers who were raised with technology at their fingertips are navigating that with growing awareness.”

Yet despite these efforts to stay focused, Gen Z drivers admitted to a range of legal but distracting behaviors. Over the past year, 54% reported eating while driving — slightly higher than millennials (53%) and noticeably higher than Gen X (47%) and baby boomers (32%). A third (32%) of Gen Z also admitted to driving while tired, and they were the most likely generation to let a pet sit on their lap (13%) or engage in heated arguments with passengers (15%).

This contrast between tech-savvy precautions and risky behaviors highlights the complexity of modern driving habits among younger generations. While 64% of Gen Z use their phones for music and 54% for directions while driving, they were also more likely to use hands-free functions than older generations — suggesting a growing awareness of road safety concerns.

Still, when it comes to self-assessment, Gen Z remains cautious: only 30% of them believe their generation is safer behind the wheel compared to others, versus 63% of baby boomers who said the same about their own.

The survey also showed that Gen Z is more comfortable integrating technology into other aspects of their driving experience, including insurance. Forty-one percent of Gen Z drivers use technology such as location-enabled apps or plug-in devices to monitor their driving habits for better insurance rates — compared to just 13% of boomers.

“Younger drivers are redefining what it means to be responsible on the road,” Burgess said. “They’re not just open to tech-enabled insurance — they expect it. From using telematics to unlock better rates to embracing connected features that promote safer driving, Gen Z is showing that modern insurance should meet them where they are: mobile, mindful and data-driven.”

Despite their tech-forward habits, the data suggests theres still work to do to fully close the gap between distraction and safety on America’s roads — no matter the generation.