In-car arguments impact drivers
14 June 10
An in-depth study by the Transport Research Laboratory for a leading insurance provider has revealed the dangers of squabbling children whilst driving.
Proving to be a huge distraction the report showed a 40 per cent increase in instances of hard breaking due to lack of concentration. More worryingly the report showed a slower reaction time with an increase to stopping distance of four metres. The increase in distance travelled is the equivalent to the additional stopping distance travelled when driving with a blood alcohol level at the UK legal limit.
At a time of year when people are planning breaks away Staveley Head a leading caravan insurance broker would suggest making a few plans before the journey. In-car games are a great way to keep the kids quiet and also planning frequent stops allows everyone to get some fresh air and refreshments.
Alongside delayed reaction times motorists stress levels were also on the up by 28 per cent whilst driving with children arguing in the vehicle. With drivers interviewed after the study admitting to feeling distracted, stressed, less confident and less safe, the study found the motorists did not reduce their speed even though they felt the noise of the children arguing impaired their driving.
Dr Nick Reed, Senior Human Factors Researcher, said:
“This study showed that there was a noticeable impairment to driving caused simply by the noise of arguing children. Consequently, drivers should be aware of such risks when setting out on long journeys with children. Where possible, precautions should be taken to minimise such distraction.”
Staveley Head is a leading provider of Caravan Insurance in the UK. For more information regarding this article, or to compare Caravan Insurance quotes, contact Staveley Head on 0845 017 9991.
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