Cell Phones and Driving Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Cell Phones and Driving - Research Paper Example The second performance level comprises the skills required by a driver to move the car in the traffic. This level of performance is known as the tactical behavior. Deficits included in this level show up in the form of driver getting too close to the other vehicles on the road, or the driver’s lack of approach to other vehicles as he/she turns left on an intersection. Impacts of a driver’s conversation over a cell phone on the driving show up as change in speed, change in acceleration, and reduction in the driver’s tendency to quickly react to sudden changes in traffic. Strayer et al (2003) characterize the behavior of drivers influenced by consequences of using cell phone while driving during the first and the second level of performance as â€Å"sluggish†. Performance of the driver changes so that he/she starts getting slower. The third level of performance includes goal-directed traits of driving which are more managerial and project the strategic perfo rmance of a driver. Problems encountered by the driver at the third level of performance include failing to execute the planning and navigation tasks during driving. Presently, there is a lack of direct evidence which supports the observation of deficits on this level with the involvement of a driver in a conversation over a cell phone while driving. Ma and Kaber (2005) found that drivers using cell phone while driving experienced a considerable reduction in their awareness of the road situation. In addition to that, the perceived mental workload of such drivers relative to the adaptive cruise control conditions had increased a lot. Use of cell phones while driving decreases the tendency of a driver to appropriately react to the stimulated situations that call for an alteration in... This research paper discusses the implications of use of cell phones during driving for the society and discusses whether it is appropriate to ban the practice to make the driving experience safer. It is stated that there has been a tremendous increase over the years in the number of drivers who use cell phones while driving. This is a very dangerous and unethical practice as it increases the chances of accidents on the road. Drivers involved in this practice conventionally underestimate and overlook its negative implications and consider it too simple a matter to be taken seriously. A number of alternates to the use of hands to make or attend the call have been suggested including the use of hands free calling service. Nevertheless, this does not make the practice less risky as the fundamental element that increases the chances of accidents is the diversion of the driver’s attention, which is caused when a cell phone is used during driving irrespective of the use of hands. In order to drive safely, it is imperative that the driver is fully attentive towards driving. There has been a lot of research to prove the negative effects of use of cell phones while driving. Some researchers have found the danger inherent in this practice comparable to the danger involved in the practice of drunk driving. In conclusion, the researcher recommends that considering the implications of this practice on the safety of drivers, it is advisable for the government to ban the use of cell phones while driving.