Motion Extrapolation of Car-Following Scenes in Younger and Older Drivers

Abstract

Objective: The objective was to determine whether distortions occur in motion extrapolation of car-following scenes in younger and older drivers. Background: Drivers cannot see an entire traffic scene clearly with one glance. They must extrapolate the motion of surrounding vehicles while scanning other parts of the scene. Further, abilities relevant to motion extrapolation decline with age. Thus, it is important to evaluate age differences in motion extrapolation. Method: Displays simulated car-following scenes. After an interruption, the scene reappeared at the correct position in its trajectory or at a position that was more advanced or less advanced than the correct position. Drivers reported whether the scene reappeared at the correct position. Results: When the virtual self moved faster than the lead car, older drivers' judgments were biased toward less advanced reappearance positions. Younger drivers' judgments were biased toward more advanced positions. The implication is that older drivers extrapolated the motion slower than did younger drivers. Conclusion: Distortions occurred in motion extrapolation of car-following scenes, and age differences occurred in such distortions. Application: Potential applications of this research include traffic safety. Age differences in motion extrapolation are useful to consider in differential accident patterns of younger and older drivers. Future research should investigate the relationship between accidents and the ability to extrapolate motion, particularly during driver distractions.