Entertaining the Risk: Tech and Distracted Driving
WORDS BY ANTONINA JOSON & ANBY ALCOMENDAS
Modern technology has brought us from browsing through vinyl records and going to the theatre to having entire catalogues of music and film in our pockets, homes and cars. While phones and screens in cars can be important tools for drivers, they also carry a safety risk when used for distracting entertainment.
The dangers of distraction
Picture this. You are on the road for what seems like a long time. The road stretches far ahead, with little more than the surrounding landscape to keep you company. Alternatively, you could be stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, with no idea how long you will be trapped in a bottleneck alongside other motorists.
In the past, you could turn on the radio with a quick press of a button and listen to music or commentary. You can still do that today, but drivers now have many more options. They can stream music, browse playlists, interact with touchscreen dashboards and access entertainment through connected smartphones.
The convenience of these technologies can make it tempting to interact with them while driving. However, even a seemingly simple task, such as changing a song or checking a notification, can take attention away from the road.
Even a seemingly simple task, such as changing a song, can take attention away from the road.
The National Road Safety Strategy identifies distracted or inattentive driving as a road safety risk in Australia. Its research also highlights the role technology can play in monitoring driver performance and detecting distraction, particularly in workplace vehicle fleets.
The danger is not limited to looking away from the road. Drivers must continuously observe their surroundings, anticipate other road users ' movements and respond to changing conditions. When attention is divided, their ability to recognise and react to hazards can be compromised.
Types of distracted driving
Driver distraction can take several forms. The National Road Safety Partnership Program( NRSPP) identifies distraction as an issue that extends beyond mobile phone use to everyday activities and interactions with technology. Three commonly recognised forms are visual, manual and cognitive distraction.
01 VISUAL
Eyes off the road. Looking at a phone, a notification, a playlist or a video on an in-vehicle display.
02 MANUAL
Hands off the wheel. Holding a phone, typing a destination or adjusting touchscreen controls.
03 COGNITIVE
Mind off the drive. A conversation, a phone call or an engaging podcast can occupy your thinking.
24 ISSUE 61 OCTOBER 2026 / WWW. AFMA. ORG. AU