IP2.8.4 Factors affecting thinking distance – reaction time © Oxford University Press 2011 Factors affecting thinking distance – reaction time

IP2.8.4 Factors affecting thinking distance – reaction time © Oxford University Press 2011  There are many factors that can affect the thinking distance; they are all related to the driver’s reaction time.  Can you think of some factors that will affect how quickly a driver reacts?  How tired they are  Whether they have been drinking alcohol  Whether they have taken any illegal drugs  Whether they have taken some types of prescription or over the counter drugs  Whether they are distracted by music or using a mobile phone  Whether they are distracted by other people in the car

IP2.8.4 Factors affecting thinking distance – reaction time © Oxford University Press 2011  All those factors can slow down a driver’s reaction time, even to the point where they don’t even realise that they need to stop at all.  Remember, it is not just illegal drugs that can slow a person’s reactions; some medicines bought over the counter can also make people drowsy and therefore increase the time it takes them to react to things.  The authorities have banned using handheld mobile phones while driving because they are dangerous but using Sat Nav devices, for example, can also distract the driver.