Some distractions while driving are more risky than others, researchers say

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-02/vt-sdw021916.php

Public Release: 22-Feb-2016
Some distractions while driving are more risky than others, researchers say
Researchers determine greatest driver risks using first large-scale, crash-only naturalistic database
Virginia Tech

Drivers more than double their crash risk for more than half of their trips when they choose to engage in distracting activities, according to Virginia Tech Transportation Institute researchers writing in this week's Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Using or reaching for a handheld cell phone, reading or writing, reaching for a non-cell phone object, or using touchscreen menus on a vehicle instrument panel -- activities that require drivers to take their eyes off the road -- increase crash risk. Being in an obvious emotional state also adds to the risk factor. Now, researchers are discovering more about how risky some factors really are, and how other activities are not as risky as people may have thought.

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Drivers more than double their crash risk for more than half of their trips when they choose to engage in distracting activities, according to Virginia Tech Transportation Institute researchers writing in this week's Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Using or reaching for a handheld cell phone, reading or writing, reaching for a non-cell phone object, or using touchscreen menus on a vehicle instrument panel -- activities that require drivers to take their eyes off the road -- increase crash risk. Being in an obvious emotional state also adds to the risk factor. Now, researchers are discovering more about how risky some factors really are, and how other activities are not as risky as people may have thought.

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Furthermore, the study highlights how driving while observably angry, sad, crying, or emotionally agitated can increase driver risk nearly 10 times. Traveling well above the speed limit creates about 13 times the risk, and driver performance errors such as sudden or improper braking or being unfamiliar with a vehicle or roadway have an impact on individual risk.

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