Do Racing Video Games Create Bad Drivers?
If you play racing video games, we have some bad news. A new study conducted by Censuswide has revealed that you might be a worse driver as a result. Researchers asked 1,250 drivers about their video game and real-world driving habits, and the data is alarming.
Overall, nearly a quarter of those who play racing games admitted to having multiple speeding tickets. They also admitted to being more likely to try moves they had mastered in the game in the real world. As a result, players were twice as likely to get into car accidents.
A representative for Brake, a safe driving charity, told The Telegraph, "Any driver tempted to try a move from a video game when actually behind the wheel needs to know that in reality, their actions can have serious consequences. There is absolutely no justification for any driver trying these dangerous moves on our roads, putting people's lives in danger."
With such a small sample size, it is also important to take the results from this study with a grain salt. There are plenty of driving simulators, like Forza, that use real-world physics in their gaming engines that can be applied by talented drivers in the real world.
The most important take away for anyone reading this is to use common sense while behind the wheel. It sounds as simple as it is, and it saves lives.
