In fact, to use a headset while driving is no less dangerous than to hold the phone in your hand

Headsets are positioned as a safer alternative to cell phones, but despite the fact that hands free conversation while driving still carries additional risks for both drivers and pedestrians.

According to new research Road Safety Foundation USA, any distraction carries an additional danger when the driver's attention focused on the road and driving. The more distractions - the slower the reaction, and thus distracted driver may not notice a sharp change in the situation, such as the appearance of a pedestrian.

Scientists from the University of Utah examined the brain waves, eye movements and other indicators to assess how increasing the load on the brain when drivers try to do several things at once. In the view of drivers spontaneously included green and red lights in order to divert them from the road, and then they were asked to talk on the phone while driving, listen to the radio and perform a number of other similar actions.

Listening to the radio was given the category of "one" and ranked as minimal risk, talking on the phone has received the category of "two" - was recognized as a moderate risk. While listening to the radio and check voicemail negative impact on the reaction of drivers and got the category of "three" - heightened risk, as the most dangerous for drivers recognized by reading a text message while driving.

via factroom.ru