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Effects of simulator practice and real-world experience on cell-phone-related driver distraction
Joel M Cooper1, David L Strayer
1Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA. joel.cooper@psych.utah.edu
Objective:
Our research examined the effects of practice on cell-phone-related driver distraction.
Background:
The driving literature is ambiguous as to whether practice can reduce driver distraction from concurrent cell phone conversation.
Methods:
Drivers reporting either high or low real-world cell phone usage were selected to participate in four 90-min simulated driving sessions on successive days. The research consisted of two phases: a practice phase and a novel transfer phase.
Results:
Dual-task performance deficits persisted through practice and transfer driving conditions. Moreover, groups reporting high and low real-world experience exhibited similar driving impairments when conversing on a hands-free cell phone.
Conclusions:
These data indicate that practice is unlikely to eliminate the disruptive effects of concurrent cell phone use on driving.
Application:
Multiple regulatory agencies have considered, or are currently considering, legislation to restrict in-vehicle cell phone use. Findings reported herein may be useful to inform these public policy decisions.
