With summer fast approaching, it's not just the temperature that's rising so are the risks on the road. A new study suggests drivers are more likely to be distracted this time of year.
Francesco Biondi, a professor in the Department of Kinesiology and an expert in driver behaviour, led a study with Windsor Police Service examining rates of distracted and aggressive driving in school zones and business improvement areas (BIAs) around the city.
We designed and adopted a mixed-method approach, using both quantitative and qualitative data collection, to get a better idea of how prevalent driver distraction is in Windsor, especially in areas that exhibit a greater prevalence of vulnerable road users," Dr. Biondi explained.
Researchers conducted roadside observations in summer and fall 2024 and winter 2025, tracking driver behaviour in these higher-risk areas. They also examined how factors such as school zone size and traffic volume influenced distraction rates.
According to Biondi, the study found that approximately 20 per cent of drivers engaged in distracted driving, with noticeably higher rates recorded during the summer months.
Previous research by Biondi points to some of the most dangerous types of distracted driving: talking on a cellphone, texting and using a vehicle's touchscreen.
He also noted that drivers of larger vehicles, such as SUVs, were more likely to engage in risky or unlawful driving habits a trend that aligns with recent studies showing the greater risks posed by larger vehicles on the road.
"Our research clearly shows that the perceived safety of larger vehicles like SUVs is a dangerous misconception. While some drivers may feel more protected behind the wheel of a larger vehicle, the data undeniably demonstrate an increased risk of harm to road users," Biondi said.
"This project exemplifies the University's commitment to collaborating with our community to address real-world challenges. It's a powerful demonstration of how scientific research can directly improve the lives of people in our region."
The study was supported by a grant of nearly $25,000 from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. Windsor police contributed staff consultative time and perspective to the project, while the university provided about $14,000 in equipment and technological support.
Barry Horrobin, director of planning and physical resources at Windsor Police Service, says the study's results clearly show the impact distracted driving is having in Windsor, particularly in areas with a higher concentration of vulnerable users, increasing the risk of harm.
While most people already know distracted driving is a problem, Horrobin says the data offers a clearer picture of when, where and how it's happening.
"The Windsor Police Service sees great value in our partnership with the University of Windsor to carry out this important study that correlates with community safety. The study's results offer a more detailed lens into behaviours of drivers on our roadways that impact the safety and well-being of everyone and will be helpful in further guiding us in how we will continue to address this important issue," Horrobin said.
This is the first study of its kind in Windsor, and its findings are expected to help inform efforts to reduce distracted and aggressive driving across the region.
