Effect of driver distraction contributing factors on accident causations – A review

As per the studies involving automobile accidents, every year, an enormous number of fatalities occur on the roads of India because of road traffic crashes on account of driver’s slip-up. Distraction caused to the vehicle driver is a well-noticed reason for this error, though less reported. The prime source for such distractions can be an outcome of general ergonomics, vehicle design, distractions from in and out of the vehicle or other psychological factors. With the fast development of in-vehicle systems and infotainment gadgets, the burden associated with distracted driving is expected to increase. The objective of this paper is to review current researches in the field of driver behavior and other quirks that contribute driver distractions in Indian road conditions. The sources, influence and other contributing factors of driver distractions were analyzed and suggestions for engineering and administrative control strategies were discussed in the paper. This review also underlines the need for constant driver-vehicle interactions to avoid accidents. Further, the study justifies the focus on training strategies and technological involvements that would address the issue of driver distractions.