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Driver distraction and driver inattention: definition, relationship and taxonomy
Michael A Regan1, Charlene Hallett, Craig P Gordon
1French Institute of Science and Technology for Transport, Development and Networks (IFSTTAR), Lyon, France. michael.regan@ifsttar.fr
Accident; Analysis and Prevention
|June 11, 2011
Summary
Driver distraction and inattention are major causes of vehicle crashes. This study defines these terms and presents a taxonomy to distinguish distraction from other inattention forms for better crash analysis.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Traffic Safety
- Human Factors
Background:
- Driver distraction and inattention are recognized as primary contributors to vehicle crashes.
- Existing definitions and the relationship between these constructs are inconsistent and unclear.
- Lack of standardized definitions hinders comparable research and accurate interpretation of findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clearly define driver distraction and driver inattention.
- To present a taxonomy distinguishing driver distraction from other forms of driver inattention.
- To establish a common framework for analyzing crash contributing factors and comparing research.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of psychological constructs related to driving.
- Development of a hierarchical taxonomy for classifying driver inattention.
- Literature review to support definitions and categorization.
Main Results:
- Provided distinct definitions for driver distraction and driver inattention.
- Introduced a taxonomy that differentiates driver distraction from other inattention types.
- Established a framework for consistent coding of inattention in crash data.
Conclusions:
- The proposed definitions and taxonomy offer a unified approach to studying driver inattention.
- Standardized definitions will improve the comparability and interpretability of research findings.
- This framework aids in developing more effective strategies for crash prevention and mitigation.
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