01333523

Component

A substantial body of research has shown that the use of cell phones while driving can impair driving performance thus representing a relevant traffic safety issue. Studies have also shown that with the increase in cell phone general use, phoning while driving has also increased. With around 80% of Jordan’s population owning cell phones, phoning while driving has become a legitimate concern for potential safety hazards. In order to effectively target interventions towards those drivers who use cell phones while driving, information is needed about the characteristics of these drivers. The present study investigated the extent of cell phone use on Jordan’s roads and the characteristics of drivers who use cell phones while driving. The data was collected using a questionnaire survey and analyzed to examine the relationship between phoning while driving and drivers’ demographics, driving experience and exposure, and the characteristics of users. Among all participants, the study found that those who reported the use of hands-free devices tended to use the cell phone more often and for longer durations of time. Further, male drivers tended to use the cell phone while driving more frequently and for longer durations compared with female drivers. In regards to pulling off road while using cell phone, the study found this practice to be more prevalent with females, older drivers, and drivers with more years of education. The study also revealed other findings that are important in characterizing the trend of using cell phone while driving in Jordan.

01329018

11-3301

English

19p

2011

Transportation Research Board 90th Annual Meeting

DVD

Figures (5) ; References (23) ; Tables (7)

Automobile drivers; Automobile driving; Demographics; Distraction; Gender; Highway safety; Mobile telephones

Hands-free telephones

Jordan

Highways; Safety and Human Factors; I83: Accidents and the Human Factor

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2011 Paper #11-3301

TRIS, TRB

Feb 17 2011 6:28PM