Conference Proceeding

Manipulating Drive Characteristics to Study the Effects of Mental Load on Older and Younger Drivers

Authors
  • Lana M Trick (University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada)
  • Martin Lochner (University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada)
  • Ryan Toxopeus (University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada)
  • David Wilson (University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada)

Abstract

A driving simulator was used to assess performance in younger and older drivers (M ages 18 and 71 years). The impacts of three challenges were assessed: visibility (clear day, fog), traffic density (low, high) and wayfinding (no challenge, drivers challenged to use signs and landmarks to find their destination). Performance was measured in terms of hazard RT, collisions, wayfinding errors (missed or extra turns), and driving speed. The challenge manipulations produced interactive effects and age was a factor in some of these interactions. Older drivers missed more turns in wayfinding but overall they performed as well or better than younger drivers and reduced their speed more to driving challenges.

How to Cite:

Trick, L. & Lochner, M. & Toxopeus, R. & Wilson, D., (2009) “Manipulating Drive Characteristics to Study the Effects of Mental Load on Older and Younger Drivers”, Driving Assessment Conference 5(2009), 363-369. doi: https://doi.org/10.17077/drivingassessment.1344

Rights: Copyright © 2009 the author(s)

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Published on
24 Jun 2009
Peer Reviewed