This study has previously been published in Finnish (IRRD 281058). In this English report, some less significant results, conclusions and summaries have been omitted. The purpose of this study was: (1) to increase knowledge about the acquisition of information by the driver, and orientation and selectivity of attention and perception, (2) to investigate research methods, and to develop and test a simulation method to study perception in different kinds of traffic environments, (3) to produce applicable knowledge for traffic environment planning and particularly traffic control. The theoretical part of the study consists of an account of theories concerning the acquisition of information by the driver, and analyses of information processing and demands on perception in driving. The methods of research into visual search in driving and perceptibility and intelligibility of stimuli were analysed, and validity problems of simulation and laboratory experiments were also discussed. The experimental part of the study consists of six different experiments (tests) concerning visual search and perception of traffic signs, roadside advertising and vehicles.
Abstract