Citation

Hurst PM. Behav. Res. Highway Safety 1971; 2(2): 73-82.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1971, Behavioral Publications)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Considers a driver's choice dilemma among options having different risk levels. A rational rule for such decision making is developed from statistical decision theory, supported by behavioral research on choice determinants. Comparison of relevant parameters suggests that an effort to raise the risk-taking threshold is apt to be less successful than one aimed at reducing the inconsistency of choice behavior with a given threshold value. Although some traffic control innovations may fulfill the latter function, evaluation is hampered by lack of techniques for quantifying inconsistency. One such technique is derived, applicable to any observable choice dimension but requiring operational definition of the most relevant stimulus function controlling the choice behavior under study. An example is given in which alternative stimulus functions were evaluated for control of blocked-lane merging behavior and the most relevant of these used to evaluate traffic control innovations for reduction of driver inconsistency. Further examples are introduced showing how the stimulus control function varies at different stages of on-ramp merging and under varying illumination. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)