An Evaluation of Driving Behavior for “Right-Way” Drivers in Wrong-Way Driving Events

Abstract

The fatality rate in Wrong-Way Driving (WWD) crashes is 12 times greater than all other roadway crash types. Recently, WWD countermeasures that provide alerts of oncoming wrong-way vehicles to “right-way” drivers are gradually being implemented across the US. Using a driving simulator, this study examined the behavior/performance of “right-way” drivers during a WWD event; and subsequently seeks to evaluate the potential effectiveness of an ITS countermeasure that targets the driver in the legal direction of travel. Findings showed that, overall; the use of an overhead dynamic message sign (DMS) “wrong-way warning” system can prevent fatal WWD crashes and/or reduce their severity. The likelihood for a “right-way” driver to avoid an oncoming WWD is 19.4 times greater when they are provided a DMS alert. Participants demonstrated use of lower brake force; indicating they were cautious as they approached the WWD. Even among participants that did collide with the WWD, their collision velocities were lower.