With the advent of new technology in vehicles, drivers can access information in many different forms (email, address books, Web pages) and from many information sources (cell phones, PDAs, driver support systems). With these new information sources finding their way into cars comes increasing concern about the potential adverse effects resulting from drivers’ interactions with such multifunction devices. This paper examines the disruptive impact of complex, interactive, hands-free cell phone communications upon the visual awareness of drivers proceeding through high volume intersections. The present study documents changes in driver visual behavior, resulting from cognitive distraction of speech-based interactions, that may contribute to intersection crashes. The results of this research raise significant HCI implications for the design of interactive Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) within the automotive sector. Keywords Hands-free cell phone, telematics, speech-based inte...
Patricia Trbovich, Joanne L. Harbluk