Effects and Evaluation of the Graded Deceleration Display on Driver Braking Performance

Abstract

Driver braking performance is highly dependent on the driver’s ability to estimate closing distance to the vehicle in front of them. Unfortunately, drivers often do not accurately perceive closing speed (Hoffman & Mortimer, 1996). Here, we examined whether providing graded deceleration magnitudes via an array of horizontally arranged brake lights (Graded Deceleration Display - GDD) can improve driver braking performance over standard (Binary) displays. In simulation, participants followed a lead vehicle through a series of braking events where the maximum rates of deceleration were systematically varied. Drivers were instructed to follow the lead vehicle at a “safe and adequate” distance. The Graded Deceleration Display resulted in slightly longer reaction times although the braking responses were more accurate in relation to the deceleration of the lead vehicle. The GDD also resulted in longer following distances, which could be indicative of an increased margin of safety for following vehicles.