The premise underlying certain common traffic laws is that multi-tasking behind the wheel–tuning a radio or placing phone calls while driving, for example–is safe so long as it is “hands-free.” A new study of drivers interacting with automotive voice-controlled information systems shoots that premise in the heart. Not only is there a significant cognitive load–and...Read More
New studies of the nature and challenges of multitasking have important implications about the safety of police driving, both on patrol and in high-speed pursuits, according to Dr. Bill Lewinski, executive director of the Force Science Institute. One research team, at the University of Utah, revisited the often-studied subject of cell phone use while driving—and...Read More
Researchers from the University of Kentucky confirmed recently what skillful cops have known for years: well-timed, well-crafted distractions can derail difficult suspects from violent intentions. The researchers tested this theory with drunks, but according to behavioral scientist Dr. Bill Lewinski, executive director of the Force Science Research Center, their findings are relevant to a wide...Read More