Citation

Graydon FX, Young R, Benton MD, Genik II RJ, Posse S, Hsieh L, Green C. Transp. Res. F Traffic Psychol. Behav. 2004; 7(4-5): 271-286.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.trf.2004.09.006

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The application of neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to the investigation of driver behaviour represents a promising complimentary approach to traditional research methodologies. In this study, we used whole brain fMRI to identify the neural correlates and key brain systems involved in visual event detection during a limited form of simulated driving. Participants were imaged during several conditions that differed with respect to the task and associated demands on attention. Multiple neural systems including fronto-parietal, cingulate, and cerebellar networks were associated with detecting and responding to the target events. We interpret these findings as reflecting interrelated neural processes associated with visual attention, attention control and allocation, stimulus processing, response selection, execution and timing, all of which are critical during driving. Differences in the simulated driving tasks and associated attention demands indicated a greater role for fronto-parietal and cerebellar networks. This pattern suggests differences related to motor coordination and control, vigilance, preparatory motor processes, and the timing of the motor responses. We conclude that visual event detection performed as part of even a limited simulated driving environment engages multiple interconnected cortical and sub-cortical neural systems working in concert. The newly emerging area of transportation imaging research not only offers exciting research opportunities to investigate driving as a complex human activity, but the findings can also be applied to the design of more efficient and safer vehicle control systems and operator interfaces.