Driver-cyclist interaction under different bicycle crossroad configurations

Abstract

Objective of the present study was to analyze the effectiveness of countermeasures at bicycle crossroads during the driver-cyclist interaction by the use of a driving simulator. Three countermeasures were examined: baseline condition (absence of treatment), colored paved markings and raised island. Forty-two participants drove a suburban scenario with several bicycle crossroads having difference configurations and presence/absence of cyclist. 378 speed profiles were plotted from 150 m before each crossroads to obtain the explanatory variables of the driver behavior. A set of ANOVAs was used to analyze the driver behavior. Results showed that countermeasures affected in statistically significant way the distance at which the driver ends the braking maneuver, highlighting the better effectiveness of the colored pavement. A general improvement of the driver speed behavior was also observed for this countermeasure. The outcome of the questionnaire confirmed that it was considered as the most effective in terms of driving aid.