Authors: D.D. Peterson, D.S. Boyer

Date of Publication:  May 1975

Sponsoring Agency:  U.S. Department of Transportation - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Performing Organization:  Tracor Jitco, Inc.

Report No: DOT HS-801 569

Abstract:

The purpose of this effort was to study the feasibility of various in-vehicle warning systems.  The methods used to conduct the study include literature searches, surveys, interviews, and observations.  Results of the study indicate that a major cause of accidents between motor vehicles and trains or emergency vehicles is nonreception of a warning by the driver.  Nonreception is caused by factors such as acoustically isolated vehicle interiors, lack of driver concentration resulting from stress or fatigue, poor visual scanning patterns, geographical and climatic conditions, and distraction.

In-vehicle warning systems (IVWS) have a potential for being an effective countermeasure in over half of the present accidents if system design could provide adequate range, signal clarity, and user confidence.  Such characteristics require a technological level beyond a simple transmitter and receiver system.

IVWS is not recommended for general installation due to the cost and the low amount of benefits that could be realized.  IVWS is recommended for inclusion in large scale comprehensive roadway and railway communication systems.
 

No. of Pages:  157