9 years, 5 months ago

Voice commands while driving still distracting and risky, AAA study says

Drivers who use hands-free commands remain distracted for up to 27 seconds after they have made a call or changed music, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Working with researchers at the University of Utah, the auto club’s safety branch found that this lingering distraction raises new concerns for using phones and vehicle infotainment systems. “The results indicate that motorists could miss stop signs, pedestrians and other vehicles while the mind is readjusting to the task of driving,” said Peter Kissinger, chief executive of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. “Given the relentless pace of technology advancement, we’re always looking for new ways to make that interface between user and machine smoother and more intuitive.” The other cars tested and their ratings were the Buick LaCrosse, 2.4; Toyota 4Runner, 2.9; Ford Taurus, 3.1; Chevrolet Malibu, 3.4; Volkswagen Passat, 3.5; Nissan Altima, 3.7; Chrysler 200c, 3.8; and Hyundai Sonata, 3.8. “Given that the impairing effects of distraction may last much longer than people realize,” he said, “AAA advises consumers to use caution when interacting with these technologies while behind the wheel.” For more automotive news, follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

LA Times

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