The effects of Deviant sound on driver performance

Abstract

Findings from previous research demonstrated that novel sounds can capture attention, resulting in a lowered performance when a cognitive task is being measured. Driving ability is dependent on variant factors, which can be reduced when a deviant sound is introduced. The completion of driving whilst performing a secondary oddball task, often answering a cellular device, has resulted in reduced ability. The study therefore aims to test whether deviant sounds can reduce driver ability, in comparison to quiet and non-deviant sounds. The study measured lap speed crash rates, hypothesising that both will increase under deviant sound. 30 participants completed all three sound variant laps, using a simulated driving experience. There was no significant effect between sound and lap speed, or sound and driver crash rates. F, (1.672, 48.479) = 1.772, p> .05, = .185, 𝜂2𝑝 = .058). F (2, 58) = 1.573, p> .05, = .216, 𝜂2𝑝 = .051). Although the study revealed that there were no significant effects, unsupportive of past research, it did show that lap times were faster under deviant sound, as well as more crash rates (mean average). Because of this, the study concluded that deviant sound can affect driver performance. However, further testing is needed to support this.