Investigation Into the Effect of an Intersection Crash Warning System on Driving Performance in a Simulator

Objective: The objective of this research was to examine the effects on driving performance of a prototype intersection collision warning system (ICWS) that is based on the dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) technology concept. Methods: An experimental study with 32 participants using a driving simulator was conducted to examine the effects of ICWS on the driving performance of different drivers sorted by gender (male, female) and experience (experienced, novice) compared across 3 warning conditions: no warning, audio warning, and visual warning. Each participant completed 3 test, drives with each drive comprising 3 events. Each event contained a combination of scenario type (cross-traffic from left/right scenario, right turn against scenario) and warning condition. Results: The results showed that an ICWS, in general, could reduce the number of intersection crashes by approximately 40 to 50 percent and shorten drivers' reaction times to brake in response to emergent events occurring at intersections. Moreover, drivers' reaction times to brake in response to the audio warning system were significantly shorter than in response to the visual warning system in the cross-traffic from right scenario. In addition, speeds were reduced in all 3 scenarios and deceleration rates increased in the cross-traffic from left and right turn against scenario under the influence of ICWS. Conclusions: In general, the results provide overall support for ICWSs based on the DSRC technology concept. The broader implications of the research are discussed.