Car Singers Are Safer Drivers

ByABC News via logo
July 24, 2005, 1:19 PM

July 24, 2005 — -- VH1's TV show "Motormouth" uses a hidden camera to tape drivers who sing out loud in their cars and poke fun of them on national television. But, what viewers don't realize is that these drivers may be some of the safest out there.

A new study out of England found that singing drivers are safer drivers. Sixty-three percent of the safest drivers say the music they listen to behind the wheel makes them feel calmer.

Too calm that they fall asleep behind the wheel?

Not so, according to the study. Singing drivers concentrate more and fall asleep less than the average silent motorist.

The streets have become a mean place, especially behind the wheel of your car. Traffic jams can cause road rage, and long commutes can find people nodding off in the driver's seat. But, loading your compact disc or tape player with your favorite tunes could be the answer to your driving angst.

The study also suggests the type of music can determine the level of serenity achieved behind the wheel. You can sway back and forth to the tunes of Joss Stone, but music from rock group The Prodigy can have the opposite effect, causing a motorist to tense up behind the wheel.

Singers Johnny Cash, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera lead the pack in creating a better driving experience for motorists.