Driving into Distraction: Cell Phone Use and Injury Outcomes in Single and Multi-Vehicle Crashes

Abstract: As mobile technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, understanding its impact on driving behavior is critical for traffic safety. This study examines the factors influencing driver injury severity in crashes caused by distractions such as cell phone use, navigation systems, and texting. Using data from Oregon’s cell phone-related distracted driving crashes from 2018 to 2022, we analyzed 2,902 multi-vehicle crashes and 396 single-vehicle crashes. Injury outcomes were categorized as no injury, minor injury, or severe injury. To account for unobserved heterogeneity within the police-reported crash data, we employed a random parameters mixed logit model. This model allowed us to identify key factors that influence injury severity differently across single- and multi-vehicle crashes. Significant factors affecting both crash types included driver age (under 25 years), residency status, arterial road conditions, and restraint system usage. However, other variables such as gender, collision types, speed limits, vehicle occupancy, and lighting conditions were found to affect injury outcomes differently in single- versus multi-vehicle crashes. The findings demonstrate the complexity of distracted driving incidents and underscore the need for targeted interventions. By addressing the distinct contributing factors for injury severity in single- and multi-vehicle crashes, transportation safety professionals can design more effective countermeasures. Tailoring safety strategies to the specific characteristics of these crashes will help mitigate the risks associated with distracted driving and enhance overall road safety in Oregon.