In developing crash countermeasures and the associated supporting models of driver behavior and performance, particularly those associated with response to threat or imminent crash situations, it is becoming increasingly apparent that data collection in a “naturalistic” setting is a preferred approach for obtaining necessary human factors data. Given the variability and complexity of driver behavior and performance, the random and rare nature of crashes, and the lack of adequate pre-crash data in today’s crash record, it is especially important to collect real-world data that includes the crash experience and crash-relevant incidents in sufficient detail and depth. This elucidates the conditions and driver behaviors that precipitate crashes, and supports the development and refinement of crash countermeasures. The “100 Car Naturalistic Driving Study” is a three-phased effort designed to accomplish three objectives: Phase I, Conduct Test Planning Activities; Phase II, Conduct a Field Test; and Phase III, Prepare for Large- Scale Field Data Collection Effort. This report documents the efforts of Phase I. Project sponsors are the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). (Author/publisher)
Abstract