Motorists, particularly higher mileage fleet drivers, are increasingly suffering from information and technology overloads in modern cars, according to RAC’s latest Report on Motoring.
Overall the survey found that 54% of drivers are seriously distracted by radios and entertainment systems, including DVD players, while satnav had a similar effect on nearly half.
Confusion about a proliferation of monitoring and warning symbols plus switchgear on car fascias was typified by only half of those surveyed recognising the airbag symbol,
Significantly, 35% of those questioned were also distracted by heating and air conditioning controls while 32% claimed mobile phones seriously disturbed their concentration.
Clinical studies reveal that drivers’ brains become randomly selective about which information to absorb when overwhelmed with data.
As a result of new technology, 85% believed the complexity of today’s cars dictates that drivers should be taught how to use in-car technology properly and selectively.
