On-the-move destination entry for vehicle navigation systems: Unsafe by any means?

Abstract

This paper outlines the arguments (and supporting evidence) both for and against allowing drivers to enter a destination with a vehicle navigation system while active in the primary driving task (‘on-the-move’). The benefits and limitations of various safety-related interventions are discussed, including the use of warnings/instructions, safeguards and design improvements. Whilst it is clear that the visual, manual and cognitive demands associated with entering destinations using current vehicle navigation systems can be high, it is concluded that inhibiting the use of this functionality whilst on-the-move, particularly through the use of reactionary legislation, will not be the ideal solution. Rather, human factors research must investigate the potential for novel user-interfaces, develop reliable and valid methods for assessing the safety impact of different designs, and consider the wider issues of system use and behavioural adaptation.