ABSTRACT
The Problem. Driver distractions contribute to the deaths and injuries of teen and adult drivers. Scope of Chapter. The central theme of this chapter is whether or not teen drivers are more likely to be distracted and more adversely affected while driving than other age groups. Crash databases, naturalistic studies, driver observations, surveys, and experimental research, which are concentrated within the past 5 years, are reviewed so that a number of focused questions concerning the teen driver can be addressed. In addition, potential countermeasures to reduce distracting activities and consequential outcomes in teen drivers are also discussed. Limitations and Recommendations. Many gaps in knowledge are evident with respect to a complete understanding of the effects of distracting activities on driving in general and teens in particular. Studies that determine the crash risk and performance decrements of teen and novice drivers with a range of distractions are unfortunately rare, use a limited number of measures, and are not replicated. Similarly, countermeasure effectiveness studies are also infrequent and delayed relative to immediate threats from changing technologies. Effective interventions require urgent action to prevent additional deaths and injuries from driver distraction.
