The objectives of this study were to investigate (1) the visual-motor control strategies when executing overtaking maneuvers in a fixed-base driving simulator, (2) decision making in overtaking, and (3) the effect of closing speed adaptation on these processes. The first experiment investigated overtaking of a lead vehicle with no oncoming traffic. The second experiment added oncoming traffic traveling at various approach speeds. The study found that drivers were often inaccurate in deciding whether it was safe to overtake in front of an oncoming vehicle. The control strategy adopted by the driver appeared to be one source of error. It was observed in several instances that the drivers initiated an overtaking maneuver when the oncoming car's distance was above a critical value, even though there was insufficient time to complete a safe maneuver. Adaptation to closing speed (produced by driving on a straight open road) also affected overtaking behavior. For all participants, closing speed adaptation resulted in decisions that were delayed, of higher risk, and more variable. Potential applications of this study include improved training for younger drivers by adding driving simulations. Another application would be the development of in-car interfaces that reduce closing speed adaptation.
Abstract