This Inquiry responds to increasing concerns about the greater influence of and reliance on interactive technology and its impact on road safety. The explosion of information and entertainment sources and the desire to be connected and engaged with events in real time, have resulted in a revolution in the design and manufacture of a range of devices. This development has contributed to expectations that everyone is able to be contacted instantaneously, regardless of location or mode of travel. Distraction resulting from these devices, particularly as it applies to road safety, can lead to catastrophic consequences for vehicle drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and all those who use the road network. In recent times, the advent of more and more sophisticated interactive technology has compounded previous risks of distraction. The ability to interact with a variety of information sources simultaneously, means that our ability to selectively attend to the most important task at any one time becomes compromised and may result in hazardous outcomes. Staysafe has examined recent developments in technology and made assessments about the negative implications and risks associated with distracting technology, as well as the possible benefits of harnessing the power of computing to reduce information overload and to assist in managing competing priorities. The advent of smart phones and their interoperability with vehicle technology, as well as the integration of other in?car vehicle communication systems, offer opportunities for improved safety, provided that regulators, manufacturers, road safety practitioners and road users recognise the challenges involved and work collaboratively to develop workable solutions. The Committee has made recommendations to increase public awareness of the nature and consequences of distraction, to improve data collection and research and to institute a better testing regime for devices to ensure their safety. Additionally, stricter enforcement of breaches for the illegal use of devices and a more rigorous approach to limit the amount of unregulated roadside advertising has been recommended by the Committee. In recognition of the associated risks for all who use the road, the Report also recommends that more attention be focussed on vulnerable road user groups, such as pedestrians and cyclists, to ensure that the impact of distraction on their road use can be monitored and the harmful risks minimised. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting