Smartphones & co – extent and consequences of distraction in traffic

To investigate distraction on the roads in detail and identify measures to counteract the underestimated danger it poses, the Austrian Road Safety Board (KFV) has studied this issue at length. In addition to literature research, accidents and accident causes have been analysed. Survey have likewise been conducted with road users (motorists, cyclists and pedestrians) and augmented by observation activities in real road settings. A driving simulator study was used to investigate the driving behaviour and eye movements of car drivers when distracted at the wheel. The findings confirm the danger posed by distraction. In the observation study, 29% of pedestrians and 8% of cyclists were visibly distracted. Distraction could likewise be assumed for 50% of the car drivers observed. In the driving simulator study, reading and typing on a mobile phone in particular led to a clearly slower reaction to critical incidents and an increased risk of accident. In addition to making corresponding proposals, KFV also implements measures to raise awareness.