Study: Vehicle Infotainment Systems Distract Drivers

Does your vehicle have an infotainment system? There's no denying the fact that infotainment systems have become increasingly popular in recent years. Typically found in the dashboard of the cabin, they provide functions for navigation, climate control, music, text messaging and more. With that said, there's new evidence suggesting that infotainment systems distract drivers and increase the risk of collision.

According to a study conducted by AAA Nevada, both young and old drivers take their eyes off the road when using an infotainment system. Researchers found that young drivers took their eyes off the road for 28 seconds when using an infotainment system, whereas older drivers took their eyes off the road for 34 seconds when using an infotainment system.

Of course, it only takes a brief distraction to cause a collision. The study's researchers say that drivers who take their eyes off the road for just two seconds are twice as likely to experience a collision than those who keep their eyes on the road at all time.

"These systems are there, and they’re great, and they provide a lot of features, but they’re also distracting people,” said AAA Nevada's Sergio Avila. “Younger drivers, on average, took about 28 seconds to send a text message in their car. Older drivers, on the other hand, took 34 seconds on average. Think how long you’re driving in that time.”

What should you take away from this study exactly? The bottom line is that while infotainment systems offer an unparalleled level of convenience, they are a major distraction for drivers. To use an infotainment system, you'll typically have to take your eyes off the road -- and it only takes a few seconds of not looking at the road to experience a collision.

If you're thinking about installing an infotainment system in your vehicle, consider using a voice-operated infotainment system. As the name suggests, voice-operated infotainment systems don't require you to press, push or tap buttons. Rather, you can control them using their voice. They are generally safer than their touch-controlled counterparts because they don't require you to look away from the road.

Alternatively, consider pulling your vehicle over to a shoulder or parking lot to use your infotainment system. If your vehicle is parked, you can safely use your infotainment system without fear of experiencing a collision. By following these tips, you can remain safe while driving and using your infotainment system.