The American Transportation Research Institute has launched a new survey that explores the use of navigation systems by commercial drivers.

This brief online survey, which seeks both commercial driver and motor carrier input, will capture information on the attitudes of both groups toward navigation systems including perceived benefits and risks.

While navigation systems are becoming increasingly commonplace in the nation's commercial vehicles, the impact that these devices have on driver behavior, decision making and safety is not fully understood.

There is mounting anecdotal evidence that GPS navigation units are being blamed for large truck crashes where "bridge strikes" and other crashes in which the truck driver was using a navigation system designed for passenger vehicles have been high profile events.

The results of this survey will provide further insight on the use of these systems and their impact in commercial trucking operations, as well as the impacts that other methods for providing directions to drivers might have on fleet safety and operations.

The research results will also provide an opportunity for the public sector to improve transportation operations and minimize infrastructure damage. Drivers and carriers are encouraged to complete the confidential survey, available on ATRI's website at www.atri-online.org.

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