Drivers warned of iPod dangers

Motorists should enjoy the sound of the radio while at the wheel rather than using an iPod, according to new research on car safety.

Researchers from the Journal of the Human and Ergonomics Society found that rooting through an iPod playlist is more distracting for drivers than just listening to the radio, even when seeking out different stations.

Using a driving simulator, 50 motorists aged between 18 and 25 were tested on their reactions while using radios and iPods.

The experts said: "A simple task of selecting a song from a list can seduce you into looking away from the road longer than you might have intended, and long looks away from the road can kill."

MP3 connections are now available in about nine out of 10 new cars, but even newer devices with large screens do not lessen the risk of being distracted, the study showed.

Following the publication of the research, drivers were urged to ensure their main focus at all times is the road and other traffic - and to make sure they have car insurance in case they or another road user has an accident linked to use of the technology.

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