As drivers tune into their favorite holiday classics, they might want to skip "Frosty The Snowman" this season. According to research from the South China University of Technology, the beloved Christmas song is linked to an increase in risky driving behaviors due to its fast tempo.
According to the New York Post, A recent study has identified "Frosty The Snowman" as potentially hazardous when listened to while driving.
The study targeted the effects of music with high beats per minute (BPM) on driver behavior. "Frosty The Snowman" recorded in the 1950s by Gene Autry and Jimmy Durante, exhibits a BPM of 172 - remarkably high, which can subconsciously encourage drivers to speed up or make rash decisions.
This festive tune's entrancing beat places it at the top of Insuranceopedia’s list of the most dangerous Christmas songs to listen to while driving. The findings have sparked conversations about the broader implications of listening to high-BPM music while operating a vehicle.
"As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to recognize how music influences our driving habits. While festive tunes bring joy, some high-energy or distracting songs can impact our focus on the road," explained Max Coupland, CEO of the insurance guidance website.
Following closely behind "Frosty The Snowman" on the risky list is Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You," which has a BPM of 150. These songs, cheerful and uplifting, may inadvertently lead drivers to adopt a similarly spirited driving style, which can be less than ideal from a safety perspective.
Other songs noted for their high BPMs include "Feliz Navidad" by Jose Feliciano and "Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town," both of which also feature rhythms that could potentially distract drivers or encourage faster driving speeds.
The South China University Of Technology's study suggests that this phenomenon is not just about the distraction caused by music but also about the physiological responses such as increased heart rate that high BPMs can evoke, further influencing driving behavior.
The research encompassed an evaluation of numerous classic Christmas songs, analyzing how their rhythmic qualities could affect driver psychology and physiological states, including cardiovascular responses. Such bodily responses can, in turn, lead to potentially dangerous driving practices.
It's not just about the speed of the music but also how the brain interprets these beats which can lead to a decrease in the attention span necessary for safe driving. The festive season typically sees an uptick in driving activity, making this information crucial for ensuring road safety.
Insuranceopedia and similar organizations aim to raise awareness about these less-considered driving hazards, especially during the holidays when music plays a significant role in creating a festive atmosphere.
Max Coupland advises drivers to curate their in-car playlists with care, opting for songs that maintain a moderate tempo and do not interfere with concentration. It’s about finding a balance between enjoying festive music and being aware of its subconscious effects.
While no one suggests a ban on Christmas music in cars, understanding its influence can help drivers make safer choices. The holiday period should be a time of joy, and ensuring a safe driving environment contributes significantly to the season's enjoyment.
In light of these findings, the next time you set up your holiday playlist, consider choosing tunes that enhance your driving safety rather than compromise it. "Frosty The Snowman" might be a beloved classic, but it could be worth saving it for when you’re not behind the wheel.
