New research has found that drivers are more prone to making mistakes when listening to sport on the radio.
Scientists at the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) found that reactions were slowed and there was more chance of road accidents if the listener had an emotional attachment to the team or an interest in a particular outcome.
The report claims that reactions can be slowed by up to 20% leading to a greater stopping distance than when driving with a blood alcohol limit at the UK legal limit. It also found that sudden braking at the last minute almost doubled when drivers listened to sport on the radio.
Dr Nick Reed, from the TRL, said: “At particularly tense times, such as a penalty shootout, it may be safer to find a safe place to park and enjoy the action without risking an accident.”
