In 2 experiments, the authors studied the perception of speed in an automobile as a function of speed, previous acceleration, trajectory, driving experience, and sex of the participants. In experiment 1, 60 participants estimated the speed at which they travelled by car. In experiment 2, 30 participants performed an active estimation task with an accelerator to produce a target speed, in addition to the same passive verbal estimation. The results showed a tendency to underestimate speed, and this effect was more pronounced at lower speeds. The predicted overcompensation in the active production task confirmed the general equivalence of both passive and active estimation despite certain differences. Results are discussed from a psychophysical viewpoint, and implications for driving behaviour are also considered. (A)
Abstract