Two experiments (simulator and test track) were conducted to validate the concept of a system designed to warn potential victims of a likely red-light violator. The warning system uses sensors to detect vehicles that are unlikely to stop at red traffic signals and uses signs and flashing lights to warn drivers who might collide with a violator. Several human factors issues need to be addressed before such a system could be deployed. The experiments for this study addressed one of these issues—whether, if warned, a sufficient number of drivers would respond in a way that would allow them to avoid a rightangle collision. The results suggest that in the case where no other vehicles precede or follow, a majority of drivers who receive a conspicuous warning will act by braking sharply. Driver responses in both tests were similar. The test track results support the continued use of driving simulators in development of the system. Further research is required to assess responses to warnings given to drivers within a stream of traffic. (Author/publisher)
Abstract