According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving is a factor in over 9% of fatal crashes. New research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety suggests that smartphone features, specifically the "do not disturb" setting, can help reduce distractions while driving. This feature, when activated, has been effective in limiting the interactions drivers have with their phones.
Dr. David Yang, president and executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, stated, "Distracted driving continues to be a major traffic safety concern. Despite their potential to reduce distraction, smartphone technology-based countermeasures are not widely used by drivers. This study aimed to uncover how to encourage more people to use such features to stay focused on the driving task and improve safety."
The research aimed at understanding why drivers are hesitant to use the "do not disturb" feature and how these barriers can be overcome. Some drivers avoid activating the feature due to misconceptions about the limited access it supposedly provides to music and navigation. However, the current technology does allow both to remain accessible. Other reasons include unawareness of the feature's availability or simply forgetting to enable it.
One common concern among drivers is FOMO or fear of missing out. There is a worry that important calls or texts could be missed with the feature activated. Nevertheless, it was found that many drivers prefer the feature when in stressful situations, suggesting an inclination towards its usage during high-demand scenarios.
The study also highlights a generational divide in awareness and attitudes. Younger drivers, aged 18-24, are more knowledgeable about the feature but still believe in their ability to safely use phones while driving, indicating their belief that these features are unnecessary.
To address awareness and usage, an on-road study was conducted with participants aged 18-24. Over a 10-week period, the study included a training phase on using the "do not disturb" feature effectively. Before training, 50% of participants were unaware of the feature, and 85% did not know how to use it. Post-training, all participants understood its availability and functionality, leading to a 41% decrease in smartphone interactions.
Jake Nelson, Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy & Research for AAA, commented, "We’ve all witnessed how smartphones can lead to distraction and risky driving, but it’s possible these devices could help us to prevent it. Increasing the use of Do Not Disturb technology requires more than building awareness. It requires behavior-focused strategies, smarter automation, consistent reinforcement through social norms, and possibly small incentives."
AAA recommends several strategies to promote the usage of the "do not disturb" feature. These include enhancing public education, integrating feature usage in driving programs, and employing reminders and incentives. Addressing misconceptions through messaging and leveraging influencers can also aid in increasing its adoption.