Effects of Using Mobile Phone on Traffic Safety: The Methodology of Studies

Using mobile phone while driving (MPWD) has been considered by many researchers and its negative impact on traffic safety was demonstrated in various studies. However، the research frameworks on which these findings are presented from are being discussed and criticized by many researchers. These methodological frameworks were discussed in this study. Studies published in six related journals indexed in ISI web of knowledge were searched with six keywords and without time filter. Selected journals were related to health، safety، transportation and behavioral sciences. 13 studies were selected based on full text availability and high citation. The average number of citations per selected papers was 8. 3. Three methodological approaches in MPWD studies can be distinguished. Epidemiological approach used by social medicine experts and epidemiologists، simulator approach by ergonomists، safety and traffic experts and psychological approach by neuropsychologists and cognitive psychologists. Each methodology has some limitations in MPWD studies. All research methodologies show that using mobile phone while driving can increase the risk of driving crashes. However، it is difficult to generalize the findings of various studies because of their methodological limitations. Pros and cons of each methodological approach have been discussed.