Reducing Elevated Gravitational-Force Events through visual feedback: a simulator study

Abstract

Road traffic accidents represent one of the leading causes of death across all age groups globally. Most of these accidents can be directly attributed to drivers’ failure to select the correct driving speed. Thus, actions aimed to mitigate inappropriate driving performance, including speeding, are needed. Here, we used a dynamic driving simulator to investigate the effects of different real-time coaching programs on driving performance, specifically on the occurrence of Elevated Gravitational-Force Events (EGFEs). Forty-three drivers underwent a two-day evaluation. On the first day, participants –after an initial screening and depending on their driving style– were divided into two groups: defensive vs. aggressive drivers. On the second day, they received a different type of real time visual feedback based on their driving performance. For each of the two driving style groups, half of the drivers received contingent positive feedback (when smooth driving events occurred), the other half received contingent negative feedback (when harsh driving events occurred). Thus, there were four groups based on driving style and feedback. Overall, results showed that among aggressive drivers contingent feedback –independently from its type– reduces the occurrence of EGFEs. Potential applications of the proposed methodology include its use for Pay-how-you-drive programs aimed to improve driver speed control.