This paper outlines how research is supporting the effective evaluation of in-vehicle technologies through the discussion of a recent evaluation of an in-vehicle system to warn drivers of an approaching emergency vehicle. Through systematic scenario design and behavioural analysis in the driving simulator it was possible to determine when drivers first detected the warning through analysis of eye-movement data, and to determine when they first responded through analysis of driving performance data. While the device had positive effects on safety through reductions in driver speed, the data provided for a theoretical consideration of how drivers respond to warning systems in this context. Warning signals need to provide the driver with reliable information in a salient manner, minimising distraction, and issues relating to the warning timing and mode of presentation are critical here. Priming theory emerged as a likely mechanism underpinning the observed safety benefits and is generalisable to other settings where an advisory warning is presented before the threat is perceived. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E217612.
Abstract