The Role of Simulation in a Staged Learning Model for Novice Driver Situational Awareness Training

This paper theorizes that an optimal strategy for training novice drivers to acquire situational awareness skills will rely on a hierarchical approach consistent with traditional models of cognitive development. The success of applying such models hinges upon information presentation techniques that can maximize depth of processing, and hence comprehension and retention, at a specific stage of learning. Our general discussion argues that the appropriate use of simulation is uniquely suited to meet this need

Intersection Geometric Design and Operational Guidelines for Older Drivers and Pedestrians, Volume II: Executive Summary

DTFH61-92-C-00142This project was performed to develop guidelines for changes in the geometric design and operations at intersections with the greatest potential to aid in their use by older drivers and pedestrians. A literature review identified age-related diminished capabilities that affect performance at intersections, and examined current design standards and their adequacy for older road users. Problem identification studies (accident database analysis, task analysis, focus group discussions, field observations) were conducted to better define older persons' difficulties in intersection use, and an expert panel met to prioritize variables for more extensive laboratory and field studies later in the project. These studies subsequently focused on age (including both young-old and old-old groups) and the effects of opposite left-turn lane geometry (offset amount and direction), right-turn channelization and curb radius, and varying median pedestrian refuge island configurations, using both objective (performance) and subjective measures. A critique of the data obtained in these studies during a second expert panel meeting concluded that sufficient evidence exists to support guidelines for: (1) geometric design to ensure a minimum required sight distance for drivers turning left from a major roadway, and (2) operational changes to accommodate older drivers where (re)design of an intersection to meet sight distance requirements is not feasible. In addition, a revision of Case V in the AASHTO Green Book to determine sight distance requirements that reflect the perceptual task of gap judgment by a left-turning driver more accurately than the current assumptions in Case IIIB is recommended, and further research needs to enhance the safety and mobility of older road users at intersections are identified

Intersection Geometric Design and Operational Guidelines for Older Drivers and Pedestrians, Volume III: Guidelines

DTFH61-92-C-00142This project was performed to develop guidelines for changes in the geometric design and operations at intersections with the greatest potential to aid in their use by older drivers and pedestrians. A literature review identified age-related diminished capabilities that affect performance at intersections, and examined current design standards and their adequacy for older road users. A set of problem identification studies (accident database analysis, task analysis, focus group discussions, field observations) were conducted to better define older persons' difficulties in intersection use, and an expert panel met to prioritize variables for more extensive laboratory and field studies later in the project. These studies subsequently focused on age (including both young-old and old-old groups) and the effects of opposite left-turn lane geometry (offset amount and direction), right-turn channelization and curb radius, and varying median pedestrian refuge island configurations, using both objective (performance) and subjective measures. A critique of the data obtained in these studies during a second expert panel meeting concluded that sufficient evidence exists to support guidelines for: (1) geometric design to ensure a minimum required sight distance for drivers turning left from a major roadway, and (2) operational changes to accommodate older drivers where (re)design of an intersection to meet sight distance requirements is not feasible. In addition, a revision of Case V in the AASHTO Green Book to determine sight distance requirements that reflect the perceptual task of gap judgment by a left-turning driver more accurately than the current assumptions in Case IIIB is recommended, and further research needs to enhance the safety and mobility of older road users at intersections are identified

Intersection Geometric Design and Operational Guidelines for Older Drivers and Pedestrians, Volume I: Final Report

DTFH61-92-C-00142This project was performed to develop guidelines for changes in the geometric design and operations at intersections with the greatest potential to aid in their use by older drivers and pedestrians. A literature review identified age-related diminished capabilities that affect performance at intersections, and examined current design standards and their adequacy for older road users. Problem identification studies (accident database analysis, task analysis, focus group discussions, field observations) were conducted to better define older persons' difficulties in intersection use, and an expert panel met to prioritize variables for more extensive laboratory and field studies later in the project. These studies subsequently focused on age (including both young-old and old-old groups) and the effects of opposite left-turn lane geometry (offset amount and direction), right-turn channelization and curb radius, and varying median pedestrian refuge island configurations, using both objective (performance) and subjective measures. A critique of the data obtained in these studies during a second expert panel meeting concluded that sufficient evidence exists to support guidelines for: (1) geometric design to ensure a minimum required sight distance for drivers turning left from a major roadway, and (2) operational changes to accommodate older drivers where (re)design of an intersection to meet sight distance requirements is not feasible. In addition, a revision of Case V in the AASHTO Green Book to determine sight distance requirements that reflect the perceptual task of gap judgment by a left-turning driver more accurately than the current assumptions in Case IIIB is recommended, and further research needs to enhance the safety and mobility of older road users at intersections are identified

Pavement Markings and Delineation for Older Drives. Volume I: Final Report

DTFH61-90-R-00062The objectives of this project were: (1) to identify the needs of older drivers and to evaluate the situations in which older driver performance might be improved through enhanced pavement markings and delineation; (2) to identify the range of potentially useful enhanced treatments; (3) to determine the effectiveness of those treatments judged to be most useful for the older driver; and (4) to assess the costs and benefits of the treatment shown to be most effective. Following a literature review to identify older driver deficiencies, 25 delineation/pavement marking treatments (including several "control" treatments) were identified for testing. A laboratory simulator study was used as a means to determine the most effective among the group. The treatments shown to produce better recognition distance, along with several control treatments, were then subjected to field testing. The field tests were conducted on a closed test track facility, and recognition distance and visual occlusion time were used as dependent measures. Of the 66 subjects who participated in the field study, half were over 65 years of age and half were 45 years of age or less. All subjects were involved in both types of measures. Following the field test performance assessment, the treatments were subjected to a cost benefit analysis and recommendations were made regarding the treatments that could benefit older drivers