Social media browsing while driving : effects on driver performance and attention -

Abstract

Driver distraction is one of the leading causes of road accident fatalities worldwide. Whereas texting while driving is known to lead to performance decrements, it is still unclear whether and to what extent browsing social media while driving also negatively affects driver performance and attention. The prevalence of social media applications on mobile phones means there is a need to determine what guidelines or legislation should be in place. The problem is especially relevant for young and less experienced drivers, who are more at risk for driver distraction-related accidents and also tend to use social media applications more frequently. The aim of this research study is to analyze and model the effects of browsing social media on driver performance and attention. Eye tracking is be used as a means of tracing driver attention. To this end, a driving simulator experiment is carried out with AUB students between the ages of 18 and 26. Participants are asked to drive a given path and either browse social media or send text messages on given a cell phone. Performance measures such as lane keeping, average speed, and time to brake are collected, and an eye tracker traces where participants are looking at all times. The collected data is compared across experiment conditions in order to assess the impact of different phone applications on both performance and attention. This research provides the basis for improved guidelines and legislation for drivers, and ultimately a reduction in the number of accidents that are caused by distracted driving. In addition, the results of this research can help lead to the development of in-vehicle safety systems that detect and prevent driver distraction.