Dude, where’s my avacar? A mixed-method examination of communication in the driving context

Drivers who feel social closeness with other drivers tend to drive more safely, according to previous research. Given this, we examine how communication in the driving context influences social closeness, drawing from theories of computer-mediated communication, a context with notable similarities to the road. A survey study found that social closeness with others is associated with greater communication comfort and identity expression through the car, but less treatment of the car as a social entity. An interview study provides context and caveats for these generalizations. Together, these studies present implications for near-future social-mobility services relating to safety on the road.