Distracted Driver Behaviour in South African Townships: A Roadside Observation Study

Abstract

Driving is an activity which requires full concentration, which means that the driver needs to concentrate on physically controlling the vehicle, mentally making good decisions and at the same time, monitoring the driving environment. One of the safety issues regarding distracted driving is that no matter how well a driver thinks (s)he can drive; a distraction can potentially compromise safe driving. This study observed drivers during their driving task, from the road side at selected locations at public hospitals. The research focused on vehicle drivers at an intersection near Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto and Dr George Mukhari Hospital in Ga-Rankuwa. This paper provides the results of the study and its relevancy to improve road safety in South Africa.