Distraction Index Framework: Final Report

The usage of a radio while driving has long been considered socially acceptable. There is recent concern, however, about radio usage, in its ever-changing context, remaining a relatively low-risk activity to perform while driving. This investigation examined how often drivers with access to an advanced and novel infotainment system for about four weeks were involved in crash and near crash situations. Results suggest a trend of very slight overrepresentation of infotainment system use in near crash events. Furthermore, use of infotainment systems had measurable demands on the driver's visual resources and tended to result in a reduced propensity of response to unexpected events on the forward roadway, albeit the use had limited or no measurable effect on the control of the vehicle.