Dynamic Attention as a Predictor of Driving Performance in Clinical Populations: Preliminary Results

Abstract

Existing tests (e.g., useful field of view; UFOV) that are commonly used to evaluate visual attention when predicting at-risk drivers do not have a dynamic component. In this project, the authors developed a brief computerized test of dynamic visual attention (multiple object tracking; MOT). Estimates of threshold tracking speed from the brief MOT test showed good agreement with those determined by a full psychometric function (n = 41, r = 0.876, p < 0.001). The brief MOT test was then implemented in a clinical driving assessment program; participants with poorer MOT scores had higher error scores on the road test (n = 15, r = -0.670, p = 0.006).