Evaluation of In-vehicle Symbols for an Intersection Crash Avoidance System

This paper summarizes the method and results of a study that evaluated driver comprehension and perceived appropriateness of six symbols for an in-vehicle crash avoidance system. The primary objective of the study was to select a symbol for implementation in subsequent test track and field studies aimed at examining an in-vehicle system which would warn drivers when they may be about to run a red light or stop sign. Two age groups were tested; an 18-49 year old group and an above 50 year old group. A symbol depicting a generic traffic light and stop sign had the highest overall comprehension and scored high on the appropriateness ranking part of the study. This symbol also has the production feasibility advantage of being the simplest intersection warning icon tested. Hence, this symbol was recommended for future test track and field testing for the stop sign/signal violation system under development.