A new survey from Time Magazine has found that as many as\u00a043% (compared to 26% globally) of South Africans use their mobile phones while driving.<\/p>\n
The Time Mobility Poll<\/em>, conducted in co-operation with Qualcomm, tracked 5,000 people of all ages and income levels from around the world, including South Africa, the US, the UK, China, India, South Korea, Indonesia and Brazil.<\/p>\n As many as 78% of South Africans say their smartphone or mobile phone is their most important personal device, higher than any other country.<\/p>\n The survey found that 63% of SA wireless users checked their phone at least once every 30 minutes, and 42% said they check it at least once every 10 minutes. Six in ten users said they browse the internet on their wireless mobile device at least a few times a week, up from 27% five years ago.<\/p>\n Nearly eight in ten local respondents said that\u00a0wireless mobile technology has made South Africa a more efficient place to do business.<\/p>\n “Wireless mobile technology, simply put, has made South Africa a better country. 91% of South Africans say that wireless has improved life in their country in general, compared to 69% globally. 83% say that it has strengthened South Africa\u2019s economy,” the survey said.<\/p>\n The majority of SA respondents (86%)\u00a0say being constantly connected by technology is mostly helpful, compared to just 12% who say it is a burden.<\/p>\n Globally, 84% of respondents said they couldn\u2019t go a single day without their mobile devices in hand, while\u00a026% say they feel guilty if they don\u2019t promptly respond to a work-related message outside of normal work hours.<\/p>\n Three quarters of respondents worldwide think governments should not have the power to shut off wireless networks for the purpose of suppressing peaceful dissent.<\/p>\n Related article<\/strong><\/p>\n The impossible texting and driving test<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Road Traffic calls for compulsory hands-free kits<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n