Most drivers listen to music almost all of the time. According to one study, drivers have music on about 75% of the time that they’re operating their vehicles. There are some drivers who almost never get in the car without turning on the radio or connecting their phone and streaming a playlist.
This is important because it can change the way that people drive. Let’s take a look at how this happens and how it affects safety on the roads.
Speed and tempo
One of the biggest correlations that researchers have found is that the speed of the music correlates to the speed of the vehicle. If someone is listening to classical music or another type of calming music without vocals, it will often be soothing. They will slow down, they will be less likely to engage in road rage, and they won’t drive aggressively. The music can actually help them be safer, although it can still be something of a distraction.
On the other hand, if the music has a fast tempo or has been recorded in an aggressive style, it’s likely to cause the driver to inadvertently speed up. They tend to drive more aggressively, to make more impulsive decisions and to be a bit more negligent and reckless. Drivers may also accidentally speed up to match the pace of the music, getting excited by the song and increasing the speed of their vehicle without even realizing it. By the time they notice, it’s too late and they have caused an accident.
Have you been injured?
Most drivers are listening to music, and some of them may cause accidents as a direct result. If you get injured in one of these crashes, make sure you know how to seek financial compensation.