In-depth crash investigation studies in the United States have consistenly shown that human error is the major contributory factor in most crashes: a definite or probable cause, or severity increasing factor, approximately 90 percent of the time. Drivers need help in recognizing imminent crash situations and in making quick, correct decisions with regard to avoidance manoeuvres, and, to a lesser extent, in carrying out the selected manoeuvre. Advanced technology provides the potential to: (1) help drivers to sense impending danger better; (2) sense and alert drivers of lapses in their judgements or skills; (3) aid them in performing the driving task; and (4) compensate for some of their errors. Since much of the non-recurring congestion on freeways in the United States results from crashes, improving the crash avoidance capability of motor vehicles will contribute to alleviating congestion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) programme outlined will provide the vehicle engineering and human factors research necessary to achieve the potential safety benefits promised by intelligent vehicle highway systems (IVHS).
Abstract