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Abstract
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OBJECTIVES: A cross sectional study was conducted at the Touro University California campus to compare differences in reaction times and driving performance of younger adult drivers (18-40 years) and older adult drivers (60 years and older). Each test group consisted of 38 participants.
METHODS: A Simple Visual Reaction Test (SVRT) tool was used to measure reaction times. The STISIM Drive® M100 driving simulator was used to assess driving parameters. Driving performance parameters included mean lane position, standard deviation of mean lane position measured, mean speed, standard deviation of mean speed, car following delay, car following modulus, car following coherence, off road accidents, collisions, pedestrians hit, and traffic light tickets.
RESULTS: Compared to younger participants, older drivers experienced significantly slower reaction times (510.0 ± 208.8 vs. 372.4 ± 96.1 msec, p = 0.0004), had more collisions (0.18 ± 0.39 vs. none, p = 0.0044), drove slower (44.6 ± 6.6 vs. 54.9 ± 11.7 mph, p < 0.0001), deviated less in speed (12.6 ± 4.3 vs. 16.8 ± 6.3, p = 0.0011), and were less able to maintain a constant distance behind a pace car (0.42 ± 0.23 vs. 0.59 ± 0.24; p = 0.0025).
CONCLUSIONS: Differences exist in driving patterns of older and younger drivers as measured by reaction times and driving simulator outcomes. These results are the first to compare these two specific adult age group's driving performance as measured by a standardized driving simulator scenario. Identifying these differences is essential in addressing them and preventing future traffic injuries.
Language: en |