Effect of 3D visual markings on driver perception and behavior

Abstract

In-depth accident investigations have shown that excessive speed and poor driver perception are the causes of a large number of traffic accident. One way to improve traffic safety is to provide adequate visibility in order to help drivers adopt adequate behaviors (speed, headway, etc.). Help can come from the infrastructure. The 3D visual markings are the latest innovative measure adopted as an alternative to traditional sleeping policemen. The idea with 3D visual markings is to catch drivers’ attention just briefly enough to get them to slow down, but not so much that they cause a traffic disruption. The main goal of the research was to appraise the relationship between the drivers behavior (e.g. vehicle speed) and the 3D visual markings. The results of this study are relevant for the understanding the influence of 3D visual markings on driver behavior (drivers speed selection).