A study published in Jama Network Open examined the relationship between music streaming and traffic fatalities by analyzing data from 10 major album releases between 2017 and 2022. The research team, led by Dr. Vishal Patel from Harvard Medical School, selected albums based on their Spotify streaming numbers, including releases by Taylor Swift, Drake, and Harry Styles. The researchers used this approach because album release dates create a natural experiment, with nationwide spikes in smartphone use that are unrelated to weather, road conditions, or driver demographics.
The analysis found that streaming volume for the top 200 songs in the United States increased 43% on major album release dates compared to surrounding days. Using data from a population-based registry of fatal motor vehicle crashes, the researchers compared traffic fatalities on album release dates with fatalities from the 10 days on either side, accounting for day of the week, federal holidays, and time of year. The findings indicated a relative increase of 15.1% in US traffic fatalities on major album release dates, equivalent to approximately 182 fatalities across the 10 albums studied.
The researchers identified several factors that may explain this increase. Accessing new music on a smartphone requires multiple steps—unlocking the device, opening an app, finding the album, browsing the tracklist, and selecting a song—which keeps drivers’ eyes off the road for several seconds. Additionally, unfamiliar music demands greater listener attention, and research has shown that new, high-energy music can measurably impair driving performance. The study found higher fatality increases among younger drivers, male drivers, solo drivers, and those operating vehicles with built-in infotainment systems.
While the research suggests that music streaming significantly contributes to distracted driving fatalities, the authors acknowledged limitations, including that the study does not directly confirm smartphone use in specific crashes. Patel proposed that streaming platforms could include reminders for users to set up music before driving and suggested drivers hand phones to passengers when available. He also emphasized that many countries have implemented hands-free driving laws to address distracted driving concerns.
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