Navigating Intersections

Abstract

Older experienced drivers are at a greater risk of fatal crash involvement at intersections than middle-aged experienced drivers. The present cross-sectional study asked older and middle-aged drivers to maneuver various types of intersections (left turn at a 4-way intersection, right turn at a T-intersection and straight through an intersection) in a driving simulator and measured their frequency of glances towards latent and materializing hazards. Results replicate and extend the original findings by Romoser and Fisher (2009). First, the older drivers executed a smaller proportion of primary glances and secondary glances towards target zones where a latent or materializing hazard occurs than middle-aged experienced drivers. Second, older drivers who executed fewer glances toward the hazard were more likely to crash while navigating intersections. These findings provide further evidence for age-related differences in visual scanning for information critical to road safety at intersections. From a practical standpoint, practitioners can utilize better remedial measures in lieu of these age-specific shortcomings.