Impaired driving refers to anything that distracts a driver and interferes with his/her capable performance of the task of driving. Driving can be impaired by drug use, alcohol use, driver fatigue, cell phone use, and anything else that distracts the driver, such as eating food or putting on makeup. The use of computers and navigation devices in cars called telematics can also distract a driver. This article explores driver fatigue, cell phone use, and telematics.

Driver fatigue

In a sleep-deprived nation, fatigue is increasingly becoming a problem on the nation's highways. In 2003, New Jersey passed the first law against driving while drowsy. Under the law, a motorist can be charged with vehicular homicide if evidence shows that sleepiness caused a fatal crash. The punishment for vehicular homicide is up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 fine. Surveys done by the Sleep Foundation show that 50 percent of persons polled admitted they had driven while drowsy. Seventeen percent said they had fallen asleep behind the wheel. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 100,000 crashes and 1,550 fatalities are associated with driving while drowsy.

Cell phone use

A driver's primary responsibility is to safely operate the vehicle. Studies have shown that dialing and answering a cell phone negatively impact driving ability. Recent studies show that talking on cell phones leads to significantly reduced driving performance. The finding applies to both hand-held and hands-free cell phone users. Some states permit hands-free cell phone use only, and some towns have prohibited the use of cell phones while driving.

Telematics

Telematics describes any automotive system that uses wireless technology to provide navigational and other services such as Internet access and satellite radio. A typical navigation system allows the driver to push a button and connect with an operator. The system automatically sends data such as the vehicle identification number, the vehicle location, and other information to the operator. A driver can also obtain driving directions from a dashboard computer. While telematics systems can provide assistance in an emergency, they pose an emerging public safety issue because of the distractions associated with using such equipment.

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