82% of Irish motorists don’t trust gen Z drivers

Irish people are so weary of Gen Zs behind the wheel, it actually stands out globally!

A survey found that the Irish are so weary of Gen Zs behind the wheel, it actually stands out globally!

And it's not just slightly — Irish motorists are so weary of Gen Zs behind the wheel that it actually stands out globally!

The figures come following a new global study by Scrap Car Comparison, which involved over 3,500 drivers across 18 countries, to explore how age shapes attitudes towards driving skill, confidence and safety.

Here are some key takeaways relating to Ireland's attitude toward drivers:

• Gen Z (under 25s) are seen as the riskiest drivers on the road by 82% of the Irish motorists surveyed
• Older Millennials (ages 35-44) were deemed Ireland's most trusted drivers by almost half of respondents (44%)
• 69% believe that drivers over-75s are the slowest on the road, more than in any other country
• Only 39% of people in Ireland feel safe with an driver over the age of 80, higher than the global average of 18%
• Nearly half (48%) of all drivers globally think people should stop driving in their 70s, whereas in Ireland the majority (54%) answered they should stop in their 80s
• However, 74% of Irish respondents say experience, not age, is what makes a safe driver

Overall, Ireland was ranked 6th on the list of countries who lack trust in gen Z drivers, with Australia, the UK and the US filling out the top three spots.

Customer Service Manager at Scrap Car Comparison, Matt Clamp, commented: 

“Whether you’re 18 or 80, everyone believes they’re a good driver, but perception plays a huge role in how we view others on the road. 

“Age brings both confidence and caution, but what truly defines a safe driver is experience and awareness. Preparation, patience, and respect for other road users are what make journeys smoother and safer, no matter how many candles are on your birthday cake. 

“Ultimately, we all share the same roads, from city streets to country lanes, so it’s important to stay considerate of every driver, cyclist, and pedestrian around us. Regardless of how old someone is or how we perceive their abilities, mutual respect and understanding are what keep everyone moving safely in the same direction.”