Music streaming linked to rise in traffic deaths
When a blockbuster album drops, streaming numbers may not be the only thing that spikes.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open has found a significant link between music streaming and an increase in traffic deaths in the United States. Dr. Vishal Patel of Harvard Medical School and his team analyzed traffic fatalities on the release dates of 10 of the most-streamed albums from 2017 to 2022, comparing them with the days before and after.
The findings showed that on release days, music streaming was 43% higher, while traffic fatalities rose by 15%. In total, there were 139 deaths on release days, compared to 121 on surrounding days. While the study does not prove that streaming directly caused the increase or that drivers were streaming music at the time, the researchers suggest that online music streaming through smartphones could be a potential distraction while driving, including the phone, infotainment system, or even the music itself.
As streaming becomes more accessible behind the wheel, the study raises concerns about the hidden risks associated with this convenience.
Written by urgent.news from Medical Xpress's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
