Abstract:
The paper presents a proposed methodology for designing and planning research on
driver behavior at pedestrian crossings using whole-vehicle simulators. It was assumed that dedicated research should be conducted in specific problem contexts. The problems identified were the
identification of hazards and the risk of accidents involving vulnerable road users. The purpose of
this identification is to determine the determinants of safety at pedestrian crossings, which should
constitute guidance when designing new solutions for safety support systems at pedestrian crossings.
A number of hazard factors were identified; divided into categories, including types of crossings,
location, and surroundings; behavior of vulnerable road users; and attention (focus) distractors, both
inside and outside the vehicle. A method for defining and selecting research scenarios and selecting
a group of research participants was proposed. Additionally, it was proposed to conduct repeatable
test scenarios for different driving speeds and different weather conditions. With respect to the
publications on this topic, this work focuses on the process of designing and planning dedicated
simulation studies, which may provide a source of guidance and good practices for other researchers.
This is an example of how interdisciplinary research involving human factors, traffic organization,
and ITS systems can be planned and implemented.
