The effects of iPod Use on Driver Distraction

Abstract

This study was designed to empirically examine the effects of iPod use on driver distraction. Thirty participants were asked to perform a driving simulation task while searching for songs using an iPod device. Driving errors were recorded and analyzed as a function of the distracter. Physiological measures (EEG) were also recorded during the driving phases in order to measure participant levels of cortical arousal. It was hypothesized that iPod use would affect driver distraction as measured by driving (lane deviations) performance and physiological (theta activity) measures. The results indicated that more driving errors occurred during the iPod (Mean=6.93) than the pre-iPod (Mean=3.27) or post-iPod (Mean=3.40) use. Similarly, the iPod device also resulted in a higher Theta activity when it was used with driving. Implications for driver assessment, training, safety, and design are also discussed.