Abstract
The authors examined the effects of driving for long periods in a monotonous environment. 8 subjects took part in a 3-hour driving session betweenthe hours of 10.30 pm and 3.00 am. Driving performance was monitored in terms of lateral position velocity, steering wheel angle, pressure on the accelerator pedal and braking activity. Physiological parameters measured included a) eyelid closure, b) breathing, c) heart rate and d) the pressure of the hands on the steering wheel. Subjective ratings were also made of driving capability, tiredness and task difficulty. To further analyze attentional processes, 2 secondary tasks were applied.