Older Driver Rearview Video Systems

In 2014 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a rule requiring rear visibility technology in all new passenger vehicles by May 2018 to significantly reduce the risk of fatalities and serious injuries caused by backover crashes. While research has shown that rearview video systems (RVSs), when used appropriately, can reduce crash risk, a number of drivers with RVSs report that they ignore them and instead rely on mirrors to avoid obstacles when backing. Previous research by NHTSA and others has found that training can improve drivers' ability to use the systems effectively. Older adults in particular may benefit from this type of training because they are likely to be less comfortable with technology and therefore have more difficulty learning to use these systems than younger adults. In addition, older drivers, particularly ones with age-related stiffness in the spine, may gain the benefit of fewer pedal misapplications if they learn to use the systems effectively. Using an RVS and mirror to check behind the vehicle, instead of turning to the right to check before backing, could help the driver retain his or her position in the seat and thereby reduce the risk of pedal errors. This project assesses driving performance of older adults using inside and outside rearview mirrors compared to using an RVS while operating a motor vehicle in reverse. The project will also develop training based upon the results.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $924,457
• Contract Numbers:

  DTNH2216C00011

• Sponsor Organizations:

  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, D.C.  United States  20590

  Office of Behavioral Safety Research

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, District of Columbia  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, D.C.  United States  20590
• Project Managers:

  Sifrit, Kathy

• Performing Organizations:

  TransAnalytics, LLC

  336 West Broad Street
  Quakertown, PA  United States  18951
• Start Date: 20160927
• Expected Completion Date: 20231231
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: Behavioral Safety Research
• Subprogram: Older Driver

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Backing (Driving); Cameras; Crash injuries; Driver training; Fatalities; Rearview mirrors; Risk assessment; Visibility
• Subject Areas: Education and Training; Highways; Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01612998
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Contract Numbers: DTNH2216C00011
• Files: RIP, USDOT
• Created Date: Oct 6 2016 11:36AM