University of Calgary studies youth, cell phones and driving

The University of Calgary is conducting a cell phone and driving study with youth between 16 and 25 years old who have obtained their probationary driver’s license within the last year.The goal of the Driver Distraction Study, sponsored by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), is to determine the effects of cell phone use and other distractions on the driving behavior of beginner drivers. “Other studies have looked at cell phones as a driver distraction, but this project is the first to focus on young drivers,” Jim Rivait, IBC’s vice president, Prairies, NWT and Nunavut, says.Dr. Alison Smiley, president of Human Factors North is leading the study. She says the research project is unique in that it includes experienced and beginner drivers in both a simulator, under controlled conditions, and in an on-road environment where they are exposed to real-world hazards.”The on-road component was included because driver error in a simulator has no consequences,” Dr. Smiley says. “Drivers on cell phones may behave differently on the road.”Originally slated for completion last year, the study has been delayed due to a number of factors. “There have been a few technical problems along the way, and participation has not been as robust as we had hoped,” Dr. Smiley says. “But we’re making good progress.”It’s important that the integrity of the study not be compromised in order to get it done quickly. We’re not trying to rush this.”Beginner drivers are needed for the on-road phase of the study, which entails driving a specially equipped car on the roads of Calgary. The first phase of the study, conducted in a simulator at University of Calgary, is finished and the results are being analyzed.To qualify to participate in the study, interested individuals must: be 16 to 21 years of age have obtained their probationary license within the last year have their own cellphone have the consent of a parent or guardian if under the age of 18 not wear glasses (contacts are fine).Those interested in participating should call the study’s toll-free number: 1-888-999-1565. Callers who pass the initial telephone screening will be asked to come to the university to be tested for the study’s vision requirements and to sign a consent form.Probationary drivers under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian accompany them to this session.Participants who meet the vision requirements will be asked to come back for a 90-minute on-road test session during off-peak traffic hours near the university. For added safety, a driving instructor with access to a second brake will accompany them. Participants will drive a “rolling lab” – a car outfitted with cameras and sensors that record various aspects of driver behavior, the view of the road ahead and the driver’s face and feet. The driver’s detection of naturally occurring on-road hazards is measured.Participants will be paid for each of the sessions they attend. The final report on the Driver Distraction Study is expected to be released later this year.