Advantages of using a hands-free mobile device while driving
With the advancement of technology, distractions while driving have increased. As many new devices have emerged over the past couple of decades, drivers are now constantly surrounded by objects that can reduce focus on the road.
In a survey conducted by Finder in 2023, of 1,090 respondents, a startling 18% of people admitted to using their mobile phones while driving1. Suggestions from RACQ state that to reduce this statistic, drivers should be informed on how to recongise distractions and ensure all hands-free devices are set up before starting the car2.
A hands-free mobile device is defined as a technological device designed to function without physically holding it to use its available abilities. While the availability of hands-free devices has increased within the past decade, it hasn’t yet solved the problem of distracted driving3.
It has become increasingly common for the everyday driver to be using some type of a hands-free device, whether they’re someone who feels they need to keep a device in their car for essential needs like navigation, someone with a hearing impediment who may use such devices while driving, or someone who just likes the convenience of some features.
Regarding legislation, for all Learner, P1 and P2 drivers, no mobile phone use is permitted, including hands-free features (e.g. Bluetooth and Siri) expect in Queensland (QLD) where P2 drivers are permitted to follow the same rules as fully licensed drivers4. As for both P2 and fully license drivers in QLD, you may be allowed to mount your phone to a dashboard holder or keep phone in pocket and use hands-free features while on the road such as navigation, voice calls and audio5.
Across all states, any forms of digital screens being used by the driver must be in a fixed holder in the vehicle or built into the car. If a phone is not mounted it should be placed somewhere where the driver cannot touch it (example: resting on leg), penalties can include fines and demerit points6.
As this form of technology provides both advantages and disadvantages it’s important to be able to recognise how these devices impact you on the road, which will be discussed in this post, as well as understanding how this technology works and what it means for road safety and reducing distractions for drivers.
How does a hands-free mobile device work?
Hands-free mobile devices are designed to be used without the need for hands, these devices can be operated through voice commands or very minimal hand usage. They often function with Bluetooth, a wireless technology that connects devices. Bluetooth headsets, stereo systems, hands-free car kits and personal navigation devices are often operated using verbal commands to initiate features.
To ensure clear communication between the user and their device, echo cancellation and noise suppression are used, which are methods used by telephones to ensure that the desired audio is clear, and background noises don’t interrupt verbal communication. The process of echo cancellation identifies and eliminates unwanted sound signals, paired with noise suppression which recongises background noise (example: the engine of a car) and can ensure that the voice of the driver is clearly heard when they give verbal commands to devices7.
Pros and cons of using a hands-free mobile device while driving
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of using hands-free devices while driving:
Benefits of using a hands-free mobile device while driving
As hands-free technology has advanced to new heights in recent years, people have had the opportunity to take advantage of these devices within their everyday life, including and especially when driving, as the advantages of these devices have been able to benefit all types of drivers immensely.
Reduces physical distraction
Firstly, the most immediate benefit would be the reduced physical distraction drivers are exposed to when on the road. A positive contribution to decreasing the number of drivers taking their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road. A Virginia Tech study8 analysed the risks of using any device in a car. It found using a hands-free mobile device compared to a handheld device provided a lessened cognitive distraction, and therefore decreased the crash risk.
Convenience and aids navigation
Another benefit is the usefulness this technology has brought to drivers, especially those with disabilities. These hands-free mobile devices have allowed and assisted drivers with how they navigate a vehicle.
Features such as navigation, hands-free texting and calling, radio/music selection primarily come with a simple design for the everyday user to follow efficiently. The features on these devices have not only been able to aid drivers and provide convenience, but also improve safety e.g. sensors to ensure distance between each car is kept.
Compatible alongside Australian Laws
Lastly, these devices are permitted (as per each states legislation) to be used in vehicles as they comply with Australian laws9, unlike handheld devices, which are primarily illegal to hold while driving and have severe penalties if caught using one. These hands-free mobile devices give drivers the opportunity to utilise the many features their phone provides but while following legislation. With this, the potential for people to commit a traffic offence is smaller.
Dangers of using a hands-free mobile device while driving
While using a hands-free mobile device when driving is often perceived as a safer alternative to holding a handheld device directly. It’s essential to be able to recognise that even hands-free technology has its limitations and potential risks. This can leave cause for concern regarding the dangers it can bring, as it doesn’t eliminate distracted driving.
Cognitive distraction
The first main danger when considering these devices is how despite the physical element of holding the devices is eliminated, cognitive distraction remains.
Multitasking is still a risk drivers face when engaging with this technology. Cognitive functions such as processing visual information, situational awareness and reactions to hazards can all become decreased. Research from the University of Utah shows that humans have a weakened ability to complete two cognitively demanding tasks simultaneously10.
The ‘hangover effect’, which is defined by the 27 seconds someone is mentally distracted for after a call ends, also needs to be considered when answering a hands-free call11.
False Sense of Security
Another danger to consider is the false sense of security hands-free mobile devices provide to drivers.
Although talking to someone on a hands-free device doesn’t require you to take your hands off the wheel, it is still equally as distracting as talking to a passenger in the car12. As this can lead to inattention blindness, and corelates to the previous hazard of cognitive danger, a study found that having a conversation while driving reduced driving performance13. This is concerning if people aren’t taking the correct measures to ensure they are educated on the effects of hands-free mobile devices.
Third party interference
Another danger to be aware of is understanding third-party apps and the ways they may encourage hands-free phone use and the concerns that they can bring.
Technologies such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have become increasingly popular in recent years, where these devices include many features such as music, navigation, texting and calling via voice navigation by integrating your phone with your car interface. However, they also usually include a touchscreen, which can unintentionally encourage drivers to physically engage with these features, adding to distracted driving behaviours14. Also, it’s important to be aware of how some of these systems require continued attention, despite their capabilities.
Learn more about road safety in Australia
As hand-free mobile devices continue to increase among road users, it’s essential to keep yourself educated on all benefits and dangers when considering incorporating these technologies into your car. The usefulness of using these devices can allow you to access features such as navigation and music selection without the risk of picking up your phone while driving. Although, the element of distracted driving is never fully removed, as cognitive distractions remain. Remember that even hands-free conversations will still impact your ability to drive safely.
At Road Sense Australia we can assist with your learning journey about road safety, with programs such as our Traffic Offenders Intervention Program and Drive it Home courses, we aim to educate others about how they can be more mindful on the road and help reduce Australia’s road toll.
If you would like to learn more about what we do at Road Sense Australia and how to get involved contact our team today roadsense.org.au/contact-us/
