Modeling Driver Behavior within a Signalized Intersection Approach Decision–Dilemma Zone

Abstract

This study uses data gathered in a field test on 60 test participants to develop models that characterize driver brake perception–reaction times (PRTs), brake times, and stop–go decisions at the onset of a yellow indication at a high-speed signalized intersection approach. The study demonstrates that driver PRTs are influenced only by the driver's time to intersection (TTI) at the onset of the yellow indication. The driver PRT is found to increase linearly with TTI and is not affected by the vehicle speed (in the range of 54 to 88 km/h), driver gender, or driver age. In the case of stop–go behavior, the older driver (≥65 years of age) dilemma zone is wider, ranging from a TTI of 4.81 to 1.66 s versus 4.90 to 2.87 s for the younger age group. Female drivers are more likely to stop than male drivers and tend to have a dilemma zone that is closer to the intersection. Finally, the study demonstrates that dilemma zone control systems should consider a dilemma zone from 5.0 to 1.5 s instead of the current state of practice of 5.5 to 2.5 s to capture all potential driver age and gender groups.