Conference Proceeding

Driving Performance of Drug-Impaired Bus Drivers in Work Zone Areas

Authors
  • Chris Deits (University of Washington, Seattle, WA)
  • Linda Ng Boyle (University of Washington, Seattle, WA)
  • John Morrison (Cahill Swift, LLC, Boston, MA)

Abstract

There are several safety issues in work zone areas due to decrease lane width, and presence of large equipment and on-site workers. The safety issues are compounded for drivers that are also drug impaired. In this study, we examine the driver performance of 18 commercial bus operators in a simulated environment while they are under the influence of a benzodiazepine drug (Triazolam). The findings show that those drivers under the influence of the drug had higher steering entropy and greater difficulty staying close to the intended travel lane when compared to those who were not under the influence of the drug. These wider travelling distances around work barrels, by those under the influence of Triazolam, could have a potential impact on the safety of nearby construction workers and heavy machine operators.

How to Cite:

Deits, C. & Boyle, L. & Morrison, J., (2011) “Driving Performance of Drug-Impaired Bus Drivers in Work Zone Areas”, Driving Assessment Conference 6(2011), 454-460. doi: https://doi.org/10.17077/drivingassessment.1432

Rights: Copyright © 2011 the author(s)

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Published on
29 Jun 2011
Peer Reviewed