Initial Driver Avoidance Behavior and Reaction Time to an Unalerted Intersection Incursion

Abstract

Initial driver avoidance behavior and reaction time to an unexpected intersection incursion was determined using a state-of-the-art motion-based driving simulator (Iowa Driving Simulator). The intersection used for the experiment was on a two-lane rural highway (55 mph speed limit) that controlled perpendicular (crossing) traffic by stop signs. The subject vehicle did not have to stop and had the right-of-way on the highway. At one of three possible start times, an intersecting vehicle began moving into the intersection in front of the subject vehicle. This incurring vehicle intersected from either the driver's left or right side. Ninety-six subjects participated in the study. Subjects in the shortest, most severe collision avoidance situation were significantly slower to react and equally likely to steer or release the accelerator pedal as the initial avoidance maneuver. Subjects in the longest, least severe collision avoidance situation often released the accelerator pedal and braked prior to steering. Gender differences are also discussed.