Automotive Simulator Based Novice Driver Training with Assessment

Motor vehicle crashes involving novice drivers are significantly higher than matured driver incidents as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatality Analysis Reporting System (NHTSA-FARS). Researchers around the world and the United States are focused on how to decrease crashes for this driver demographic. Novice drivers usually complete driver education classes as a pre-requisite for full licensure to improve overall knowledge and safety. However, compiled statistics still indicate a need for more in-depth training after full licensure. An opportunity exists to supplement in-vehicle driving with focused learning modules using automotive simulators. In this paper, a training program for “Following Etiquette” and “Situational Awareness” was developed to introduce these key driving techniques and to complete a feasibility study using a driving simulator as the training tool. Students received minimal verbal instruction from the examiner; the majority of information was delivered by custom training videos and embedded driving simulator instructions. The first module introduced a basic timing method that allowed drivers to maintain a recommended following distance; 58% of the students passed while 42% failed. The second module allowed these individuals to practice obstacle avoidance techniques and emergency maneuvers; 25% of the students passed out right, 58% conditionally passed, and 17% failed. Overall, the simulator proved to be a feasible option for communicating automotive safety lessons, followed immediately by driving exercises to practice and reinforce the educational concept.