Traffic sign comprehension among motorcyclists: the effect of sign display and sign type

Abstract

The previous studies showed an inconsistent result for the effect of sign type on sign comprehension in different sign display. Therefore, the current study aimed to examine the effect of sign display (symbol+text or symbol-only) and sign type (warning sign, regulatory sign, or command sign) on traffic sign comprehension. A mixed experimental design was conducted on 100 young adult motorcyclists in the Jabodetabek area with two years of riding experience. In each sign, participants were measured their reaction time to comprehend the sign (sign comprehension time) and the accuracy of the meaning of the sign (sign comprehension level). The result showed that the effect of sign display depends on the type of traffic signs both in sign comprehension time and comprehension level. Based on the results, it can be inferred that further training and socialization are needed to increase riders’ comprehension of all types of traffic signs.