Environmental Effects of Driver Distraction at Traffic Lights: Mobile Phone Use

Kadir Diler Alemdar, Merve Kayacı Çodur, Muhammed Yasin Codur () and Furkan Uysal
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Kadir Diler Alemdar: Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum 25070, Turkey
Merve Kayacı Çodur: Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum 25070, Turkey
Muhammed Yasin Codur: College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Egaila 54200, Kuwait
Furkan Uysal: College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Egaila 54200, Kuwait

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 20, 1-12

Abstract: The transportation demands of people are increasing day by day depending on the population, and the number of vehicles in traffic is causing various problems. To meet the energy needs of vehicles, there is a huge burden on countries in terms of fossil fuels. In addition, the use of fossil fuels in vehicles has a serious impact on environmental pollution. Various studies have been carried out to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions. Behavior of drivers, who are important components of traffic, are carefully examined in the context of this subject. Driver distraction causes various environmental problems as well as traffic safety issues. In this study, the negative situations that arise as a result of drivers waiting at traffic lights dealing with their mobile phones are discussed. Roadside observations are made for drivers at considered intersections in Erzurum Province, Turkey. As a result of these observations, delays at selected intersections due to mobile phone use are calculated. Unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions due to delays are also analyzed. An annual fuel consumption of approximately 177.025 L and emissions of 0.294 (kg) NO X and 251.68 (kg) CO 2 occur at only selected intersections. In addition, a second roadside observation is made in order to analyze driver behavior and the most preferred type of mobile phone usage is determined. It is seen that drivers mostly exhibit the “Talking” and “Touchscreen” action classes. Considering the economic conditions and environmental pollution sensitivities of countries, attempts have been made to raise awareness about fuel consumption and emissions at traffic lights.

Keywords: driver distraction; fuel consumption; emission; traffic delay; mobile phone usage (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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