DRIVING with Music

Understanding the Role of Music for Professional Drivers

Project overview

Listening to music while driving is a common activity around the world. Previous research has shown that music can help drivers pass the time, reduce boredom, improve mood, and make journeys more enjoyable. At the same time, concerns have been raised about the potential for music to distract drivers, mask important sounds, or affect driving performance. However, almost all existing research has focused on members of the general public and commuting drivers. Very little is known about how music is used by professional drivers, who may spend many hours on the road every day and whose driving experience differs substantially from that of ordinary motorists. 


This project was designed to address this gap in knowledge by investigating the music listening habits, preferences and experiences of professional drivers working in UK fleet operations. It was developed through a collaboration between researchers interested in music psychology (AM Lab) and driver behaviour (Cranfield University), together with industry partners from the fleet and insurance sectors (QBE Insurance and participating UK fleet organisations).

The goal is to generate practical, evidence-based knowledge that can help organisations better understand the potential benefits and risks associated with music listening while driving for work.

a man driving a car with a tattoo on his arm

Background

Research suggests that drivers often use music to:
. Keep themselves entertained
. Reduce boredom
. Feel less isolated
. Improve mood
. Manage stress and frustration
. Maintain alertness during long journeys

Researchers have also identified potential risks associated with music listening, including:
. Visual distraction when interacting with music devices
. Masking of important sounds such as sirens, horns or vehicle warnings
. Cognitive distraction during demanding driving situations

Because professional drivers spend substantially more time behind the wheel than most drivers, understanding how they use music in real-world work settings is particularly important.

The study

This project investigates how professional drivers use music during their working day and what role music plays in the driving experience.

While previous research has examined music listening among members of the general public, commuters, and driving simulator participants, much less is known about music use among drivers who spend large portions of their working lives on the road.

Professional drivers operate in unique conditions. They often drive for extended periods, cover substantial distances, and face different demands, pressures, and working environments from those experienced by private motorists. As a result, the functions and effects of music in these settings may differ from those identified in previous research.

The study brings together researchers, industry representatives, and fleet organisations to better understand:
. How frequently professional drivers listen to music while working.
. The types of music they prefer.
. How they select and use music during journeys.
. The perceived effects of music on mood, wellbeing, attention, and driving.
. The potential benefits and risks associated with music listening in professional driving contexts.

Particpants

The study involves professional drivers working in UK fleet operations across a range of driving roles and vehicle types. Participants represent drivers who regularly spend substantial amounts of time on the road as part of their work and collectively provide insight into real-world music listening practices within professional driving environments.

Industry Collaboration

The project was developed through a collaboration between academic researchers and partners from the fleet and insurance sectors. By combining scientific research with industry expertise, the study aims to generate evidence that can inform future discussions around driver wellbeing, safety, and the role of music in professional driving environments.