A Driving Simulator Study to Understand the Impact of Cell Phone Blocking Apps on Distraction

Abstract

Using cell phone blocking apps is an effective way to prevent distracted driving. This study used a high-fidelity driving simulator to examine drivers’ behavior while using a cell phone blocking app. Thirty-five participants drove in a simulated network under four scenarios. Participants also completed pre- and post-survey questionnaires. The results support previous investigations regarding interactions with phones while driving. Results showed that drivers deviated from the center of the road, changed lanes significantly more often, and increased their steering velocity when drivers were interacting with a cell phone. The impacts of cell phone blocking apps were similar to the no distraction scenario while driving. This suggests that using cell phone blocking apps is one of the most effective ways to prevent distracted driving. Survey results indicated that only 23% of drivers used cell phone blocking apps before the experiment. However, 88% of the participants had a positive opinion about using these apps and indicated that they would use such apps after the experiment. These findings support the importance of cell phone blocking apps from a policy perspective and highlight the need to educate drivers about distracted driving prevention technologies.