Examination of the Distraction Effects of Wireless Phone Interfaces Using the National Advanced Driving Simulator - Preliminary Report on Freeway Pilot Study

Abstract

The report provides a preliminary description of research currently underway to investigate the effects of wireless phone use on driving performance and behavior. The main objective of the research is to collect information useful in the assessment of 1) the distraction potential of wireless phone use while driving, and 2) the difference in distraction caused by the use of a hands-free wireless phone interface versus that associated with use of a hand-held interface. This research is being conducted by NHTSA using the National Advanced Driving Simulator (NADS) in collaboration with NADS staff. This preliminary report describes the development of a freeway driving scenario and associated driving and wireless phone tasks. Also provided is a brief description of the freeway pilot study and associated example data. Lessons learned during the process of developing the simulator scenario and experimental methods are outlined in hopes of benefiting other researchers involved in similar projects. Results of the main freeway experiment and details of the refined test protocol will be provided in a subsequent report.