Do gamers make better drivers?

The question of whether gamers make better drivers than non-gamers has intrigued researchers and the general public alike. With the rise of driving and racing video games, many have speculated that the skills honed in virtual environments could translate to real-world driving. Recent studies and surveys, including one conducted by Auto Trader, provide compelling evidence that gamers might indeed have an advantage on the road.

According to a survey by Auto Trader, which included 1,000 drivers aged 18 and above who spend over four hours weekly playing driving video games, gamers tend to rate their driving skills higher than non-gamers. An impressive 41% of gamers claimed they possessed excellent driving skills, compared to only 13% of non-gamers. This self-assessment is backed by data showing that gamers accumulate fewer penalty points on their driving licenses. Only 15% of gamers have been penalized for their driving behaviors, while a significantly higher 28% of non-gamers have faced such consequences.

Cognitive Benefits of Gaming

The cognitive benefits of playing video games are well-documented. Games often require players to process diverse types of information and adapt strategies in real-time, which can enhance cognitive abilities such as reaction time and spatial awareness. These skills are crucial for safe driving. A study published in ScienceDirect found that action video game players had better driving performance and increased spare cognitive capacity compared to non-gamers. Participants with gaming experience demonstrated lower speed variability, improved lane maintenance, and better performance on cognitive tasks while driving.

Risky Behaviors and Road Safety

Despite the apparent advantages, the Auto Trader survey also uncovered some concerning trends. Gamers are more likely to engage in risky behaviors on the road, such as using a mobile phone while driving. A quarter of gamers surveyed had been penalized for this offense, compared to just 4% of non-gamers. Conversely, non-gamers were more frequently fined for speeding, with 85% admitting to getting points added to their license due to fast driving, compared to 71% of gamers.

Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Auto Trader, commented on the findings: "Our survey shows some light correlation between regular car-based gaming and safer driving habits – adding real-life examples to the studies out there which show video games can boost the cognitive skills that improve your driving. All drivers should adhere to safety regulations while driving, whether they play video games often or not, and the new technology available when you lease new models can certainly help you avoid speeding penalization".

Real-World Applications and Career Opportunities

The skills developed through gaming are not limited to driving. Nissan's research highlights that gaming can also lead to career opportunities in fields such as motorsport. Professional race drivers like Sacha Fenestraz and Luca Ghiotto attribute their success to the skills honed through playing racing games during their childhood. These skills include dexterity, concentration, and stress management, which are essential for their careers.

While the debate over whether gamers make better drivers than non-gamers continues, the evidence suggests that gaming can enhance certain driving skills. Gamers tend to have better reaction times, spatial awareness, and overall confidence on the road. However, the propensity for risky behaviors like using mobile phones while driving cannot be ignored. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of advanced safety features in vehicles may help mitigate these risks, ensuring that all drivers, gamers or not, can navigate the roads safely.