With the increased use of electronic devices, distracted driving is assumed to be one of the main causes of crashes. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has demonstrated interest in addressing distracted driving. However, the real impact of distracted driving on traffic crashes in Illinois is still unclear because of what appears to be a lack of accurate reporting. The objective of this project is to conduct a literature review, prepare a summary of findings for evaluating the relationship between distracted driver behavior and other factors, and identify best practices to mitigate distracted driving. The research team reviewed articles, reports, websites, advertisements, laws, and media reports in related disciplines, including engineering, safety, health care, psychology, law, etc. They compiled information on the characteristics of distracted driving, factors influencing distracted driving, and its association with crashes/crash risk. They also compiled information on laws restricting cell phone use as well as their enforcement and effectiveness, technologies and resources targeting distracted driving, and campaigns and education programs. This study found that electronic device use is not the only highly frequent distracted driving behavior. Attitude is also an underlying cause of distracted driving. Conclusions of past studies on the impacts of distracted driving on crashes/crash risk are not sound and concrete because of the limitations of their research approaches. Although there are no federal regulations to date, all states in the United States (except Montana) have passed laws to restrict cell phone use to some extent or to certain groups of drivers. High-visibility enforcement may be the best deterrent for distracted driving enforcement but may require additional labor and other resources to achieve the best results. Despite the prevalence of cell phone bans and increased efforts in enforcement, the effectiveness of cell phone bans is arguable. The key to addressing distracted driving is to change driver behavior. Successful traffic safety campaigns to change driver behavior have demonstrated the necessity to adopt a 'three Es' approach: enactment of a law, rigorous enforcement of the law, and education of the public about the law. To change distracted driving behavior, the appropriate approach should be 'three Es' and technology adoption. Based on the findings of the literature review, recommendations were made on steps to address distracted driving. (Author/publisher)
Abstract