The Risk Institute

Distracted Driving Initiative

This study conducted in 2020 produced several key findings:

1. Self-reported dangerous behaviors and intentions are predicted by beliefs.
2. Multiple messages in key channels (e.g., highway signs, Instagram) may be ideal.
3. Cellphone use while driving (CUWD) should be a key target.
4. Speeding is also a common problematic behavior.

Young Ohio Driver Study infographic with key findings

Our study reveals that built environments, such as the length of a roadway segment, number of lanes, the location of the road (being in an urban area) are associated with higher crash frequencies. On the other hand, roundabout was confirmed to be effective in reducing crash severities in general, but with a more significant effect on mitigating the severity of distracted driving related crashes.

Building a Better Road infographic with key findings

Recently, we conducted a survey of Americans (N=386, 49.5% male, 82.6% white) who reported that they drive at least three times per week and own a smart phone. We asked them about distracted driving behaviors, risk perceptions of distracted driving, attitudes towards driving and their cell phones, and their attitudes towards methods of reducing distracted driving behavior.

Distracted Driving infographic with key findings