Motorized two-wheeler riders’ rear brake application in sudden hazardous event of animal crossing

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aims to quantify the riders’ performance in the sudden event of animal crossing using explanatory variables such as psychological riding conditions and socio demographic parameters. The participants were asked to ride four sessions on the motorized two-wheeler simulator in randomized order: 1) Base, 2) Distraction, 3) Time pressure, and 4) Distraction along with Time pressure. The rear brake application was classified into four groups using K-means clustering: No braking, Mild braking, Harsh braking, and Very Harsh braking. Further, a multinomial logistic regression model was developed to quantify the rear braking behavior. The results from the study revealed that the odds of applying the harsher brakes are only 0.32 times in comparison to mild braking when riders are distracted. Overall findings indicate that riders’ psychological conditions can alter rider’s behavior, and driver training focusing on several hazards can further help in improving road safety.