Distracted Driving in Teens With and Without Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Objective: This study is among the first to examine the effect of talking on a cell phone or text messaging while driving in teens with and without attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Method: Teens (average age 17years) with a diagnosis of ADHD (N=16) were matched with typically developing controls (N=18). All participants operated a driving simulator while (1) conversing on a cell phone, (2) text messaging, and (3) with no distraction during a baseline condition.

Impact of distracted driving on safety and traffic flow.

Studies have documented a link between distracted driving and diminished safety; however, an association between distracted driving and traffic congestion has not been investigated in depth. The present study examined the behavior of teens and young adults operating a driving simulator while engaged in various distractions (i.e.

Symptom dimensions of disruptive behavior disorders in adolescent drivers.

Objective: Adolescents with disruptive behavior disorder, including ADHD, are more likely to engage in risky driving practices and, consequently, are more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle crash (MVC) than their non-ADHD peers. It is unclear whether symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) increase risk of poor driving outcomes.

Method: A total of 41 participants (16-19 years old) reported their ADHD and ODD symptoms and risky driving practices (errors and violations).