Four researchers at the University of Helsinki in Finland tested the brake reaction times of drivers under three conditions - driving, driving while dialing a keypad, and driving while doing a cognitive task. The last condition consisted of the driver performing mental addition and telling a researcher the answer.

Nineteen drivers between 20 and 29 years old operated vehicles on actual roadways in order to simulate a real-life situation. The test vehicles were equipped with dual passenger-side controls. Drivers followed a lead car while they were performing the tasks, and sensors measured how long it took them to hit the brakes when the car in front slowed down.

When drivers dialed or talked to researchers, there was a half-second delay in brake reaction time. This may not sound like much, but it's 25 percent of the suggested following distance and enough of a delay to cause a crash. Researchers noted that the test drivers were in a "best-case scenario" because they knew that they would be expected to brake. Drivers in real life would probably experience even greater delays in reaction.

According to the researchers, "neither a hands-free option nor a voice-activated interference removes the problem of driver performance impairment when using a mobile phone in the car." Instead, they recommended education so drivers can be more aware of the risks of using a car phone.

The researchers also noted that auto makers are beginning to advertise voice-activated controls for e-mail and other services. These features will probably also slow drivers' responses because the problem appears to be divided driver attention rather than looking away from the road.

Reprinted from the Fleet Maintenance & Safety Report

Should you have questions or comments about the Use of Cell Phones, please e-mail us at: lossprevention@mmgins.com.

Latest Revision: 10/24/2008