How do perceptions of risk and other psychological factors influence the use of in-vehicle information systems (IVIS)?

In-vehicle information systems (IVIS) have increased in popularity and availability in the past five years and are expected to transform the way individuals drive. Therefore, it is important to investigate the potential risks associated with IVIS use, particularly with regards to distracted driving. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate drivers’ engagement with IVIS and related risky driving behaviours. Specifically, the current study explored drivers’ current knowledge and use of IVIS and perceptions of risk, and used the Theory of Planned Behaviour to investigate the psychological factors that influence drivers’ decision-making in relation to its use. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 32 Australian drivers aged 19–70 years who drove vehicles with an IVIS. The results showed that drivers mainly used their IVIS for entertainment (i.e., music) and navigation purposes (i.e. GPS), and lacked comprehensive knowledge of other capabilities. Additionally, drivers do not believe an IVIS is an essential system, and further stated that it would be risky if drivers relied on the IVIS for engagement in driving tasks (e.g., navigation) or non-driving tasks (e.g., mobile phone). Some of the factors that influenced drivers’ decisions to use IVIS were the safety, entertainment, and convenience it offered and the influence of family and friends. Finally, there is evidence that mobile phones are often preferred over IVIS while driving, based on perceptions that IVIS have lower ease of use and usability.