Voice messaging while driving: Effects on driving performance and attention

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the performance and attentional effects of sending voice messages while driving as compared to calling and texting. To this end, participants were asked to drive a given path while they either receive a phone call, send voice messages, or send text messages on a given cell phone, as well as a control condition. Driving performance, eye tracking, and subjective measures were collected. The results showed that voice messaging, while not as detrimental to driving performance as texting, does lead to similar levels of visual and cognitive distraction as texting and is generally more distracting than calling. Drivers also seem to be unaware of the dangers of voice messaging while driving. This research provides the basis for improved guidelines and legislation and more targeted awareness campaigns that emphasize the dangers of voice messaging while driving on a level with other banned practices.