Driving distractions: Research and legal risks of device use

A study from Fujita Health University in Japan has demonstrated that verbal conversations while driving significantly impact cognitive capacity and visual reaction times. Researchers found that engaging in a conversation requires substantial mental resources, which can impair a driver's ability to track visual stimuli, such as lights on a screen, compared to driving without additional tasks.

In addition to verbal distractions, the use of electronic devices like smartwatches is subject to strict legal regulations. In Germany, according to the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), drivers are restricted from using electronic devices intended for communication, information, or organization. While glancing at a watch to check the time is generally permissible, reading messages, scrolling through notifications, or operating apps on a smartwatch while driving can lead to fines and penalty points, as these actions distract the driver from the road.