The University of Adelaide CENTRE FOR AUTOMOTIVE SAFETY RESEARCH

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Publication Details

TitleUncovering driver distraction and inattention in fatal and injury crashes
AuthorsWundersitz LN
Year2021
TypeUnknown
AbstractDriver distraction and inattention is an increasingly challenging issue for road safety worldwide. This study investigated the contribution of driver distraction and inattention within 186 fatal and injury crashes using recent in-depth road crash investigation data from South Australia, investigated 2014-2018. Using an adapted taxonomy of inattention, five subtypes of driver inattention were defined: misprioritised attention, neglected attention, cursory attention, diverted attention (distraction) and unspecified inattention. Of the 160 crashes for which there was sufficient information, 31% showed evidence of driver inattention contributing to the crash with the most common subtype of inattention being distraction (14% of all crashes). The distraction-related crashes included a variety of different distractions with those located in-vehicle the most prevalent followed by internal thoughts. Distraction from phone use was identified in 2.5% of all crashes (18% of distraction crashes).The wider context in which inattention-related crashes occurred was also examined to assist in developing system-based solutions.
SponsorMotor Accident Commission
Conference Name2021 Australasian Road Safety Conference
Conference AbbreviationARSC 21
Conference LocationMelbourne, Australia
Conference Date28-30 September 2021
Page Range258-260
NotesAvailable online via ARSC website
https://australasianroadsafetyconference.com.au/history-of-arsc/

Reference
Wundersitz LN (2021). Uncovering driver distraction and inattention in fatal and injury crashes. 2021 Australasian Road Safety Conference, Melbourne, Australia, 28-30 September 2021. [PRESENTED ABSTRACT]