New superstar albums linked to 15% rise in fatal crashes

Fatal traffic crashes increase by 15% on days when major superstars release new music albums, according to a study reported by ERR.

Researchers at Harvard University analysed data on hundreds of thousands of traffic deaths recorded between 2017 and 2022. They compared crash statistics with the release dates of the 10 most popular music albums, including releases by Taylor Swift and Drake.

Music streaming rose by 43% on the release dates of major albums, while traffic deaths increased by 15.1%.

The risk was more common among drivers younger than 40 and among men. The increase in fatalities was also greater when drivers were alone, sober and travelling in clear weather. Older vehicles were associated with a higher risk as well.

According to the researchers, smartphones and in-car screens may distract drivers. Streaming new music, searching for songs and reacting to what they hear can all draw a driver’s eyes away from the road.

Drivers may also feel safer in clear weather and become less vigilant. When there is no passenger to choose the music, the driver has to scroll through songs themselves.

The researchers said modern in-car touchscreens make it easier to connect phones to vehicles, but also simplify the use of music apps while driving, reducing road safety.

The study was published in the journal JAMA Network Open.