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Mobile Phones Can Be Dangerous
Techtree News Staff, Dec 03, 2008 1314 hrs ISTDrivers be warned
It is a well-known fact that using mobile phones while driving is a sure way of inviting trouble, but it continues to be flouted especially in India. New evidence, if more was required, shows that drivers using phones are equally at risk as those driving drunk.
A comparative study done by a team of researchers led by Dave Strayer, from the University of Utah, US, found that drivers were more prone to be distracted by mobile phone calls, both hands-free as well as handheld, than talkative passengers. Also, chatting on a mobile phone slowed the reaction times of young adult drivers to those seen among senior citizens.
Following too closely, drifting out of their lanes, and missing exits, were some of the telltale signs exhibited.
On the other hand, chattering passengers actually helped the drivers navigate acting as "a second pair of eyes". "The difference between a cell phone conversation and passenger conversation is due to the fact that the passenger is in the vehicle and knows what the traffic conditions are like, and they help the driver by reminding them of where to take an exit and pointing out hazards," Strayer said.
The team conducted a series of experiments with 96 adults, aged 18 to 49, using driving simulators. The study was published in the latest issue of Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied
So, next time you take to the wheels, remember that it's not a 'smart' thing to chat on your mobile phone.
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A comparative study done by a team of researchers led by Dave Strayer, from the University of Utah, US, found that drivers were more prone to be distracted by mobile phone calls, both hands-free as well as handheld, than talkative passengers. Also, chatting on a mobile phone slowed the reaction times of young adult drivers to those seen among senior citizens.
Following too closely, drifting out of their lanes, and missing exits, were some of the telltale signs exhibited.
On the other hand, chattering passengers actually helped the drivers navigate acting as "a second pair of eyes". "The difference between a cell phone conversation and passenger conversation is due to the fact that the passenger is in the vehicle and knows what the traffic conditions are like, and they help the driver by reminding them of where to take an exit and pointing out hazards," Strayer said.
The team conducted a series of experiments with 96 adults, aged 18 to 49, using driving simulators. The study was published in the latest issue of Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied
So, next time you take to the wheels, remember that it's not a 'smart' thing to chat on your mobile phone.
Related Links
Mobile Phones Are Bad For Soul
Watching Videos on Mobile Phones on the Rise
Mobile Phones Kill?
Related Links
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