Assessing smartphone use while driving: A Real-Time Delphi study on risks and prevention strategies

Smartphone use while driving represents a major public safety issue, significantly contributing to road accidents and fatalities. This study investigates the underlying factors influencing this behavior, focusing on the case of Italy, and evaluates potential prevention strategies. By adopting a participatory approach and real-time web surveys through the Real-Time Delphi method, the research engages both citizens and experts to gain a comprehensive understanding of the motivations behind smartphone use while driving and the existing regulatory shortcomings. Experts identify and propose a range of innovative countermeasures, including technological interventions, stricter legal enforcement, and behavioral strategies designed to curb this risky behavior. Citizens, in turn, assess the feasibility and perceived effectiveness of these measures, offering valuable insights into public attitudes and potential barriers to implementation. The findings highlight the persistent nature of distracted driving despite current regulations, indicating that legal frameworks alone are insufficient to fully address the issue. Instead, a multifaceted approach that combines enforcement, public education, and technological solutions is necessary to mitigate risks effectively. The innovation of this study contributes to the development of targeted policies and evidence-based interventions aimed at improving road safety in Italy and beyond.