Many people think of driving distractions as things like using a cellphone or eating a burger. They don’t realize that even listening to music while driving can be a distraction. It’s estimated that for at least 72% of drivers, music is an essential part of driving, with approximately 75% saying they listen to music while they’re driving.
What some people don’t realize is that the music on the stereo can have a significant impact on the way a driver operates their vehicle. One of the primary factors is the tempo of the music. Faster music, such as music with over 120 beats per minute, can lead to risky driving behavior like aggressive lane changes, speeding and hard braking. Slower music can reduce stress and lead to more controlled driving.
Volume also matters
Loud music can interfere with a driver’s ability to hear important sounds, and it may compete with the brain’s ability to focus on complex tasks, such as navigating traffic or reacting to sudden changes. Drivers who are too absorbed in the music may have delayed reaction times or be slower to notice hazards.
Interestingly, the study noted that silence wasn’t necessarily better. Moderate, familiar music can actually improve focus and reduce fatigue, especially on long drives, as long as it doesn’t demand too much mental energy.
People who are injured in motor vehicle crashes may not think to find out if music played a role in the wreck. This could play a role in a personal injury claim, if one is filed. Working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial for the victims so they can focus on healing.