Initially the concept of critical or emergency situation and related definition problems are discussed. An information processing model serves as a background for the analysis. The various stages of the process are described and, with reference to these, existing training programs are reviewed. The effectiveness of relevant training programs is discussed and the general conclusion is drawn that very little has been done in the way of studying the effectiveness. The problems connected with the training are summarised under the following headings: (1) learning-extinction-generalization; since the training by necessity is of very short duration and limited to very specific situations, rapid extinction and low general application to other emergency situations might be unavoidable consequences, (2) interference; new responses are to replace possibly firmly established ones acquired during several years of driving. This might lead to conflict between the two sets of responses in a sudden emergency. Interference might also occur with normal driving behaviour, (3) negative changes in risk acceptance; the driver might overestimate his own skill after training, (4) driver characteristics; special problems can be foreseen with elderly drivers and with drivers that are already very experienced. The discussion is concluded by an outline of a five-step research program dealing with the above-mentioned problems.
Abstract