Study finds cruise control increases driver drowsiness
As the technology in vehicles has become more advanced over the years, people have become more dependent on gadgets to get them to their destination. One common tool, particularly used by those on long car trips, is the cruise control. Cruise control allows motorists to take their foot off the gas pedal, while maintaining a steady speed.
Recently, researchers in France conducted a study involving 90 motorists to determine the effects of using cruise control. The researchers tested motorists in three separate age groups. The drivers were asked to drive 75 miles in a driving simulator, while their eye movements and brain activity were measured. During certain simulations, drivers were allowed to use cruise control.
The results revealed that motorists’ reaction times slowed down when they were using cruise control. When the drivers encountered incidents on the road – such as road construction or a bus accident – those using cruise control did not apply the brake as quickly as when they had their foot on the gas.
In addition, the researchers asked the motorists to rate how awake they felt at 15-minute intervals. After 30 minutes behind the wheel, many drivers went from feeling “rather awake” to “neither awake nor asleep.” This increase in fatigue was seen at the highest rates among young drivers who were using cruise control at the time.
Prevent serious drowsy driving accidents
Cruise control is not the only factor that can lead a motorist to suffer from fatigue while on the road. Drivers should also always ensure they get enough sleep – generally considered seven to eight hours – before getting behind the wheel. In addition, motorists should never drive if they have consumed alcohol or taken medication that could cause drowsiness.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fatigued drivers cause approximately 100,000 motor vehicle accidents in the United States annually. Those collisions are estimated to result in around 40,000 people sustaining personal injuries and the death of approximately 1,550 individuals.
Despite these startling statistics, motorists continue to get behind the wheel when they are fatigued. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that over 4 percent of motorists admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel during a one-month period.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by a drowsy driver, seek the advice of a skilled personal injury attorney to ensure your rights are protected.
