University of Windsor researcher Francesco Biondi led a groundbreaking study in collaboration with Windsor police to investigate distracted driving in high-risk areas such as school zones and business districts, revealing that one in five drivers engages in distractions — a trend especially concerning for vulnerable road users. (© NDABCREATIVITY - stock.adobe.com)
WINDSOR, Ont. — A first-of-its-kind study for Windsor is shedding new light on the prevalence of distracted and aggressive driving in areas where vulnerable road users are most at risk.
Led by University of Windsor kinesiology professor Francesco Biondi in partnership with Windsor Police Service, the study examined driver behaviour in school zones and business improvement areas (BIAs) across the city using a mixed-method approach.
“We designed and adopted a mixed-method approach, using both quantitative and qualitative data collection, to get a better idea of how prevalent driver distraction is in Windsor, especially in areas that exhibit a greater prevalence of vulnerable road users,” Dr. Biondi explained.
Roadside observations were conducted in summer 2024 for BIAs and fall 2024 and winter 2025 for school zones, focusing on how factors such as school zone size and traffic volume influenced distraction rates.
Researchers found that approximately 20 per cent of drivers were engaged in some form of distraction.
The study also revealed that drivers of larger vehicles were more likely to exhibit risky or unlawful behaviour — a trend Biondi says reflects a broader misconception.
“Our research clearly shows that the perceived safety of larger vehicles like SUVs is a dangerous misconception,” he said.
“While some drivers may feel more protected behind the wheel of a larger vehicle, the data undeniably demonstrate an increased risk of harm to road users.”
The project received $25,000 in funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, with additional in-kind resource support from Windsor police and the university.
“The Windsor Police Service sees great value in our partnership with the University of Windsor to carry out this important study that correlates with community safety,” said Barry Horrobin, director of planning and physical resources.
“The study’s results offer a more detailed lens into behaviours of drivers on our roadways that impact the safety and well-being of everyone and will be helpful in further guiding us in how we will continue to address this important issue.”
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