Author(s):

Grace Tai, Dagmar Kern, Albrecht Schmidt

Title of Anthology:

Mensch und Computer 2009

Location(s):

Berlin

Publication Date:

2009

File:

Bridging the Communication Gap: A Driver-Passenger Video Link (456 KB)

Citation:

Download RIS

Abstract

In a recent large-scale naturalistic study, driver-passenger interactions were identified as a major source
of driver distraction. According to this study, driver inattention to the road is often caused by conversation
with passengers. This suggests that when driving and conversing with passengers, drivers attempt
to bridge the visual communication gap with passengers by turning to look at them. In an online survey
presented in this paper, responses confirmed that most drivers interact with their passengers while
driving and and want eye contact during these interactions; however most would also prefer to keep
their eyes on the road while driving. To address these conflicting preferences, a driving simulator user
study was conducted with a monitor-based and a head-up display (HUD) video system. Results show
that a video system can provide drivers with greater visual contact with passengers without degrading
driving performance. Participants also had greater interest in using a HUD-based system.