Perception of 3D Virtual Road Markings - Based on Estimation of Vehicle Speed

Abstract

Excessive speed and poor drivers' perception are the causes of a large number of traffic accidents. Analysis of the influence of geometry in drivers' behavior has been widely performed by different researchers. One way to improve road safety is to provide adequate visibility in order to help drivers adopt adequate behaviors. When the budget is not sufficient for expensive traffic solutions, innovative but simple solutions can be implemented. In this study, the experiment was performed to explore how drivers' perception and behavior are influenced by two virtual 3D shapes' projections - a 3D alternative crosswalk pattern and speed bumps consisted of triangular prisms. The results show statistically significant differences between drivers' willingness to reduce vehicle speed as a response to the two types of road markings: the first one with the square shape base (rectangular prism) and the second one with triangular shape base (triangular prism).