Despite texting bans in almost all 50 states, smart phone distraction is a prevalent problem among drivers, especially younger ones. 

According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, distracted driving killed 3,275 people in 2023. 

But smartphones themselves may help to curb this risky behavior through “do not disturb” features that can block or limit use while driving. 

New research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that when activated, this feature can be effective in reducing smartphone interactions when driving.

“Distracted driving continues to be a major traffic safety concern as we’ve all witnessed how smartphones can lead to distraction and risky driving, but it’s possible these devices could help us to prevent it,” said Doug Johnson, spokesperson with AAA Northern California. “Increasing the use of ‘Do Not Disturb’ technology requires more than building awareness. It requires behavior-focused strategies, smarter automation, consistent reinforcement through social norms, and possibly small incentives.”

Study insights: Driver interaction with ‘do not disturb’

Researchers examined why drivers avoid using “do not disturb” features and how to overcome their objections. 

Drivers cited limited access to music and navigation as reasons not to activate “do not disturb” features. This misconception shows a lack of understanding of the technology. Current smartphone-blocking features allow music and navigation to be used when activated. 

Other barriers mentioned by drivers included lack of awareness about the feature, forgetting to turn it on, and fear of missing important calls or texts while driving.

Despite this resistance, many drivers favor “do not disturb” features that automatically turn on during stressful situations like heavy rain, snow, or traffic. This suggests that drivers are more inclined to use this feature to reduce distraction when there are greater demands on their attention.

Additionally, the study revealed that younger drivers (age 18 – 24) -- a group more likely to use their phones when behind the wheel – are also more knowledgeable about “do not disturb” features than older generations. However, they also tend to believe they can use their phone safely while driving, suggesting this group may not feel these features are necessary.

AAA recommends the following to encourage the use of “do not disturb” features while driving:

• Increase awareness through targeted public education campaigns.
• Integrate education of “do not disturb” features into driver training and licensing programs.
• Improve automatic activation and situational awareness features (i.e., recognizing when the user is a passenger versus a driver).
• Use reminders and incentives to encourage drivers to use “do not disturb” features.
• Address misconceptions through in-app messaging.
• Leverage influencers to promote the use of this technology, especially to younger audiences.