IngentaConnect The Effects of Text Messaging on Young Drivers

Authors: Hosking, Simon G.; Young, Kristie L.; Regan, Michael A.

Source: Human Factors: The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, Volume 51, Number 4, August 2009 , pp. 582-592(11)

Publisher: Human Factors and Ergonomics Society

Abstract:

Objective: This study investigated the effects of using a cell phone to retrieve and send text messages on the driving performance of young novice drivers. Background: Young drivers are particularly susceptible to driver distraction and have an increased risk of distraction-related crashes. Distractions from in-vehicle devices, particularly, those that require manual input, are known to cause decrements in driving performance. Method: Twenty young novice drivers used a cell phone to retrieve and send text messages while driving a simulator. Results: The amount of time that drivers spent not looking at the road when text messaging was up to ∼400% greater than that recorded in baseline (no-text-messaging) conditions. Furthermore, drivers' variability in lane position increased up to ∼50%, and missed lane changes increased 140%. There was also an increase of up to ∼150% in drivers' variability in following distances to lead vehicles. Conclusion: Previous research has shown that the risk of crashing while dialing a handheld device, such as when text messaging and driving, is more than double that of conversing on a cell phone. The present study has identified the detrimental effects of text messaging on driving performance that may underlie such increased crash risk. Application: More effective road safety measures are needed to prevent and mitigate the adverse effects on driving performance of using cell phones to retrieve and send text messages.

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