Is Your Music Affecting Your Driving Habits?

Most drivers do not think much about it, but when they turn on music to listen to during their commute, or even their trip, they could be negatively impacting their driving habits. A recent experiment in England set out to determine how music plays a role in driving habits, especially when it comes to speeding, aggressive behavior, and reckless driving.

What Did the Study Find?

According to The Telegraph, the study was used to determine if music affected driving habits. It was sponsored by a British insurance website. The study used four men and four women, and 500 miles of driving each. For the first 250 miles, each driver was instructed to drive in complete silence. During the last 250 miles of their trip, they then listened to various types of music. While they were listening, the researchers tracked and monitored things like speed, acceleration, braking habits, etc. Footage was also taken of each driver, and then assessed by a London University psychologist for interpretation. The psychologist concluded that different types of music affected the driver’s abilities. More specifically, hip hop and rock music seemed to be the most dangerous.

According to Dr. Simon Moore, the doctor who analyzed the video footage, music that is noisy or upbeat increases your heart rate. When your heart rate increases and excitement and arousal increase, you concentrate more on the music than on the road ahead. During the study, there were songs specifically called out for causing erratic behavior, such as “Hey Mama” by the Black Eyed Peas or “Hit the Road, Jack” by Ray Charles.

One key piece of information that was shared in the study was the choice of music. When drivers are forced to listen to music that they do not like, the stress of doing so can actually negatively impact their driving abilities. So, if passengers request a song or type of music that the driver does not normally enjoy, it could cause dangerous driving habits.

While the study was interesting, it is by no means a true measure of society as a whole. Eight people is not an adequate sample size for the rest of the country (or world, for that matter), but it does provide some valuable insight. Drivers, especially those who are easily irritated on the road, should possibly avoid music that increases their heart rate and arousal – and instead, listen to more soothing music.

Were You Injured by an Overly Aggressive Driver?

If you or a loved one was involved in a  motor vehicle accident with an aggressive driver (whether he or she was listening to music or not), you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact the attorneys at Malman Law today regarding your potential claim. Our lawyers will work as your advocate to help you receive the compensation that you deserve for your injuries and damages. Schedule a consultation now by filling out our online contact form with your legal questions.