In 1993 new European legislation regarding side-markers for passenger cars became effective. Volvo requested the TNO-Human Factors Research Institute (HFRI) to investigate the possible safety benefit of this European side-markers configuration. A test panel at TNO- HFRI was used to determine the difference in response time and detection error of drivers, confronted with slides of vehicles with and without the mentioned new vehicle side-marker configuration in several visibility conditions, crossing illumination and different vehicle approach angles. The investigation showed a significant faster vehicle recognition with less detection errors in case the approaching car was equipped with the bright amber side-markers. This improved vehicle conspicuity can be a benefit in crash avoidance, especially when the driver approaches a crossing with complex light environment and reduced visibility. Allowing the bright amber European side-markers in US legislation could be the start of better crash avoidance worldwide. Copyright © 1999 Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc.
[1]
Michael Sivak,et al.
An improved braking indicator
,
1989
.
[2]
Jan Theeuwes,et al.
VISUAL SELECTION: EXOGENOUS AND ENDOGENOUS CONTROL.
,
1991
.
[3]
Michael Sivak,et al.
AUTOMOTIVE ERGONOMICS. CHAPTER 9. HUMAN FACTORS CONSIDERATIONS IN THE DESIGN OF VEHICLE HEADLAMPS AND SIGNAL LAMPS
,
1993
.
[4]
J Theeuwes,et al.
The effectiveness of side marker lamps: an experimental study.
,
1997,
Accident Analysis and Prevention.
[5]
C J Kahane,et al.
AN EVALUATION OF SIDE MARKER LAMPS FOR CARS, TRUCKS AND BUSES
,
1983
.
[6]
M. Sivak,et al.
Nighttime visibility of side marker lamps
,
1989
.
[7]
Jan Theeuwes,et al.
Rear Light Arrangements for Cars Equipped with a Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp
,
1995,
Hum. Factors.