Influence of the lighting system on the driver's behavior in road tunnels: A driving simulator study

The tunnel lighting system is an important factor affecting driving safety, but it also represents the most expensive operative cost of a tunnel. Conventional tunnel lighting systems have been progressively replaced by LED lighting systems. This technology is spreading fast because of its low energy consumption and the high durability combined with low maintenance requirement. Aim of this research was to assess, by means of driving simulator experimentation, the impact of the LED lighting system on traffic safety. The driver performance approaching inside and exiting LED lighted tunnels was analyzed and compared to the behavior maintained in tunnels illuminated with a traditional system, in normal and in critical conditions. Thirty- one young participants drove through two different virtual scenarios while data on their speed, lateral position, and reaction in front of a sudden obstacle in the carriageway were collected. A statistically significant difference was revealed as a function of the type of lighting; simulated LED lights often induced a better driving behavior under some aspects. The motorists were able to perceive in advance the critical situation and the consequent maneuvers were carried out in a more effective way. Moreover, drivers kept better their lateral trajectory control in transition areas.