Distraction and visual search characteristics of young drivers when using navigation system displays

Navigation systems are fast and efficient sources of road information for drivers. However, they can increase the potential for accidents by distracting drivers. This study investigated the impact of navigation systems on driver distraction and visual search under various driving conditions. Using a driving simulator, eye-tracking technology recorded visual search data from twenty young drivers. The experiment analyzed factors such as driving environment (urban and rural), illumination level (day and night), and navigation system display size (large and small), as well as their interactions. Multiple eye movement metrics were employed, including duration and frequency of GPS fixation, dwell duration on the road ahead, and dwelling on mirrors and side windows. Statistical analysis employed repeated measures ANOVA to analyze the data. Findings revealed that small GPS displays caused greater distraction in terms of average and total gaze duration. Additionally, distraction increased during daytime driving conditions. In terms of visual search, wider and more dispersed search patterns were observed during the day, resulting in improved driving performance. This study aims to compare small and large navigation displays to identify the more effective option in reducing driver distractions. The research contributes to understanding driver distraction and visual search when using navigation system displays.