NRSPP Fact Sheet: Audio-visual distractions and driving ability

Driver distraction and inattention remain significant causes of road fatalities and injuries. Studies have shown that engaging in distracting activities can increase the risk of crashes by up to two-fold3, with inattention from all sources responsible for 78% of crashes and 65% of near-crashes.

Despite the preventable nature of most distractions, many drivers fail to recognise that seemingly harmless audio-visual distractions can be significant hazards when behind the wheel. In this fact sheet, we will explore the impact of audio distraction from in-ear headphones and visual distraction from technology on our driving ability.