Driving and multi-tasking myth
Expert psychologists have concluded that multi-tasking whiledriving is a myth – and the most dangerous of those driving multi-tasks is texting and talking on a mobile phone, according to a new report produced by the UK’s Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL).
The research focuses on the dangers involved when drivers try to engage in more than one task, indicating this can have a “detrimental” effect on the quality and accuracy of driving performance.
The findings come from a report entitled: “The battle for attention”, jointly produced by TRL researchers Dr Neale Kinnear and Dr Alan Stevens, and the IAM’s director of policy and research Neil Greig.
Dr Kinnear, who is a senior psychologist in the study of human behaviour and transport, and Dr Stevens, who is chief scientist and research director with internationally recognised expertise in “HumanMachine Interaction”, both reviewed existing research behind in-car distractions to understand the various cognitive processes and complexities in driving.
They said texting engages three of the five key areas of distraction to a “high” level – cognitive, visual and manual. A mobile phone conversation also engages three of five areas of distraction to a “high” level – cognitive, audible and exposure time.
Figures from the Department for Transport (DfT) in 2013 found 2,995 cases where distraction in the vehicle was listed as a contributory factor to accidents. A further 1,627 cases were listed where distraction outside the vehicle was a contributory factor.
The report says: “Research has confirmed that tasks almost always interfere with other tasks carried out at the same time. The brain never actually focuses on two tasks at the same time – it switches back and forward between them.
“As driving is so complex and requires various cognitive workshop equipment purchasers are presented with many options and deciphering fact from fiction can be quite a challenge. Many product brochures often raise more questions than they answer about the quality debate, and this is why Alemlube Automotive has on call long-serving industry professionals with vast experience in this field to assist you in making the right decisions.
Throughout New Zealand, Alemlube Automotive distributes a complete range of wheel service equipment sourced from the world’s foremost manufacturers. Partnerships forged with these companies have been based on the dedication to quality and engineering excellence ensuring many years of reliable and efficient performance and as such Alemlube Automotive is committed to the distribution, sales and the total processes, taking on another task when driving can mean a driver is unable to pay sufficient attention to all the activities required for safe driving. This can lead to a processing failure resulting in a loss of control, putting the driver and other road users in physical danger.”
Sarah Sillars, IAM’s chief executive officer, said: “This is proof, should it be needed, that multi-tasking and driving simply don’t mix. While there are plenty of distractions to tempt the driver, the individual needs to know that the phone, or Internet, or the iPod simply don’t matter – driving is the only activity that should occupy your mind while at the wheel.
“It’s important that we work with the government, car makers and educators to deliver a renewed focus on driver training and road safety – and that people know that distractions can be fatal.” support of all these products
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