Driver beware! These Christmas songs are the most dangerous to hear behind the wheel
There’s no shortage of driving hazards for anyone behind the wheel anywhere, but a new study has identified another potential driving danger lurking in your vehicle’s audio system.
Yes, because we don’t have enough stress during the holidays, here’s a list of the Top 10 most dangerous Christmas songs for drivers, based on research by Insuranceopedia, an online resource for the automotive insurance industry.
The study is based on research by the South China University of Technology that states that songs that unfold at a tempo of more than 120 beats-per-minute lead to more dangerous driving behaviors, which can lead to an increased chance of a road accident.
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According to that logic, here are the Top 10 most dangerous Christmas songs. Inexplicably, the list doesn’t include Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime,” perhaps his most inane, mind-numbing song, or the universally loathed “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer.”
Listen to the songs here, but not behind the wheel!
"Frosty The Snowman"
A beloved tale, yes, but at 172 bpm the song is capable of causing both mental and physical effects that can lower your ability to drive safely, the study states.
"All I Want For Christmas Is You"
At 150 bpm, Mariah Carey’s annual holiday chart assault also could be a potential danger to drivers, the study states.
"Feliz Navidad"
At 149 bpm, this holiday favorite might make you want to dance, which won’t contribute to safe driving practices.
"Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town"
You better watch out, with its brisk 147 bpm tempo, the Jackson 5's version of this holiday favorite also could be hazardous to driver safety.
"Happy Xmas (War is Over)"
Even with John Lennon's message of peace, this song’s 146 bpm tempo falls within the danger zone for drivers, according to the study.
"Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!"
Although snow-covered roads might be more dangerous, Frank Sinatra's take on this holiday favorite and its 143 bpm tempo also makes the list of dangerous songs for drivers.
"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer"
This tale of another beloved Christmas character clocks in at 142 bpm, fast enough to put it solidly in the Top 10.
"I Wish it Could be Christmas Every Day"
At 140 bpm, Wizzard's popular sing-along karaoke classic could cause effects on the body and mind which can lead to a decline in safe driving habits, according to the study.
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
Sure, this sweet traditional ballad seems harmless, but at 137 bpm is still ranks as dangerous to drivers in this study.
"I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus"
At 129 bpm, the Jackson 5’s version of this classic moves fast enough to round out the Top 10 list of most dangerous songs for drivers.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Most dangerous Christmas songs to hear behind the wheel? See the list
