Using mobile technology to help young drivers stop using their phones while driving
Randomized trial on mobile technology to reduce young drivers’ cellphone use
This study is looking at how using a special app or a built-in driving mode can help young drivers aged 18-24 use their phones less while driving, with the aim of making the roads safer for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099731 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how mobile applications and driving modes can reduce cellphone use among young drivers aged 18-24, who are at a higher risk for accidents due to phone usage while driving. The study will conduct a randomized controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of a cellphone-blocking app and a built-in driving mode feature. Participants will be monitored to assess changes in their calling, texting, and handheld phone use while driving. The goal is to find effective strategies to enhance road safety for young drivers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young drivers aged 18-24 who frequently use their cellphones while driving.
Not a fit: Patients who do not drive or are over the age of 24 may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of accidents among young drivers by minimizing distractions from cellphone use.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using mobile technology to reduce cellphone use while driving, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, United States
- Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Motao — Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Motao
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.