Are Young Drivers The Smartest (And Safest) Thanks To Modern Tech?

NEW YORK — Young drivers have long been criticized for risky behaviors, especially in today’s smartphone era. But recent findings reveal Gen Z is creating their own rules of the road—using technology more intelligently while still struggling with classic driving distractions.

A nationwide survey of 2,000 American drivers conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Lemonade uncovered surprising patterns in how different generations approach driving in 2025.

Tech-Smart, Yet Distraction-Prone

When it comes to technology use, Gen Z is leading a revolution in smarter driving habits. Unlike their older counterparts, 56% of Gen Z drivers regularly activate features like Drive Mode, CarPlay, and Android Auto—far outpacing millennials (47%), Gen X (34%), and baby boomers (18%). Meanwhile, 63% of boomers never use these safety-enhancing technologies.

The trend extends to navigation and entertainment. About 64% of Gen Z use their phones for music versus just 8% of boomers, while 54% use phone navigation compared to 37% of boomers. Young drivers also embrace hands-free communication at much higher rates.

“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 else’s,” says Sean Burgess, Chief Claims Officer at Lemonade. “We all get tempted by distractions, but it’s clear younger drivers who were raised with technology at their fingertips are navigating that with growing awareness.”

Despite this tech-savvy approach, Gen Z still engages in traditional dangerous behaviors at concerning rates:

• 54% ate while driving (compared to 32% of boomers)
• 32% drove while tired (versus 15% of boomers)
• 15% had heated arguments with passengers
• 13% allowed pets to sit on their laps while driving

The Confidence Gap

Only 30% of Gen Z believes their generation has safer drivers than other age groups—a stark contrast to baby boomers, where 63% believe their peers are better drivers.

This lack of confidence actually represents an opportunity. Younger drivers’ self-awareness about their shortcomings could ultimately lead to improved behaviors, especially as they continue embracing technologies that promote safer driving.

Redefining Car Insurance

The data shows a clear generational divide in insurance preferences. About 41% of Gen Z drivers use and appreciate technology-based insurance options that monitor driving habits—like location-enabled apps or plug-in devices that track mileage and behavior.

By comparison, only 35% of millennials, 28% of Gen X, and 13% of baby boomers use these telematics options.

“Younger drivers are redefining what it means to be responsible on the road,” noted Burgess. “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.”

The research indicates safety campaigns may need updating. Rather than focusing primarily on smartphone distractions, which Gen Z appears to manage relatively well, prevention efforts might better target traditional distractions like eating, drowsy driving, and emotional disruptions.

For insurers, the message is clear: younger drivers want technology-enabled options that reward safer driving behaviors and provide more personalized coverage based on actual habits rather than demographic generalizations.