Use of Advanced In-Vehicle Technology by Young and Older Early Adopters: Survey Results on Sensor-Based Backing Aid Systems and Rear-View Video Cameras. Traffic Safety Facts

摘要

Many large vehicles such as SUVs have been added to the U.S. passenger vehicle fleet in recent years, and drivers of these vehicles may not appreciate the full extent of blind spots to the rear of their vehicles. Often there is a substantial blind spot to the rear of a smaller vehicle as well. Backing may be especially difficult for some older drivers who develop reduced flexibility and reduced mobility of the head and neck. One in eight Americans is 65 or older now, and this concern will continue to grow as the American population ages. Many new vehicles are equipped with convenience systems designed to make backing easier. These systems include rear-view cameras and sensor-based backing aids. Although these systems were not developed as safety systems, this study explores several of the safety implications of the technologies. The research reported here was conducted as one part of a broader study to learn more about driver experience with several new in-vehicle technologies. The focus of this study is on how both types of backing aides are being used and how well their capability and limitations are understood, with particular emphasis on the experiences of older drivers.