Slower Response Time When Brake Lights Align with Musical Beats

The ability of individuals to predict the timing of the next beat based on the perceived rhythm of music is known as rhythmic temporal expectations. Drivers often experience rhythmic temporal expectations while driving, but whether this affects their perception of hazards remains unknown. This study explores this question by manipulating the timing of expected beats and hazard stimuli, introducing variables such as music tempo, music texture, and music training experience to provide more recommendations for listening to music while driving. A total of 59 participants (31 with extensive music training experience) participated in the experiment. The results showed that there was a longer response time when the expected beat and hazard stimulus were synchronized, with the effect being more pronounced in the inexperienced group. This indicates that rhythmic temporal expectations induced by music slowed responses to visual hazards. Additionally, the study found that the experienced group performed better with fast tempo music, while the inexperienced group performed better with slow tempo music, with this interaction being significant only in decomposed texture music. These findings provide further insights into the relationship between music and driving.