Why two hands at the wheel are better than one

13th May 2012

Commissioned by esure and conducted at the University of Leeds on a driving simulator, the study found that reaction times increased by 44% when eating behind the wheel.  For example, if the reaction time was five seconds on average when driving with two hands it would increase to just over seven seconds when eating at the wheel.  When sipping a drink, reaction times increased by 22%.  These drivers were less likely to maintain a steady lane position as well.

But when simply driving with one hand (and not eating or drinking), drivers were able to maintain the same level of performance as when driving with both hands.    

“It is widely accepted that talking on a hand-held mobile phone may increase accident risk – hence the introduction of legislation,” said Professor Samantha Jamson at the University of Leeds.  “But other activities that involve taking one hand off the wheel, such as eating or drinking, may also cause distraction, particularly when drivers take their eyes off the road to reach for or to unwrap food items.”

Mike Pickard, the Head of Risk & Underwriting at esure added:  “We are appealing for motorists to properly plan their journey before leaving the house.  Eat before you step into the car, and plan regular breaks at service stations to help prevent any cravings while driving.”