An experiment is reported that evaluated the use of an in car observation technique by investigating the role of individual differences on driving performance and by examining behaviour during different manoeuvres at non signalised major/minor intersections. Both the frequency of the different types of unsafe driving actions (UDAS) and their relative crash risk (using rated severity and resulting traffic conflicts as `proxies' for accident involvement) were obtained. Forty eight subjects comprising four experimental groups made up of `younger' and `older' men and women, were tested on a standard 60 km route. Differences found in the number, type and severity of the UDAS committed by the experimental groups and during specific types of manoeuvre are discussed and considered with respect to the identification of suitable countermeasures. The influence of the driver's personality, attitudes to safety and perception of risk are also examined. A `Subsidiary task' also provided details of what aspects of driving the subjects considered to be difficult or dangerous. (A)
Abstract