Automated vehicles and older drivers in Canada

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Transportation Safety

Background:

• Seniors are an increasing segment of the driving population, making older driver safety and mobility crucial.
• Automated vehicle technology presents potential benefits for enhancing senior mobility and road safety.
• Understanding older drivers' perspectives on limited self-driving vehicles (LSDVs) is key to adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine older drivers' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of limited self-driving vehicles (LSDVs).
• To determine how these variables influence the adoption and reliance on LSDV technology among seniors.
• To explore the role of behavioral adaptation in older adults' use of automated vehicles.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of a national survey (N=2662) on automated vehicle technology using structural equation modeling.
• Development and testing of hypothetical models, including one incorporating behavioral adaptation.
• Conducting focus groups (N=38) with older drivers to gather in-depth insights on their experiences and perceptions.

Main Results:

• Positive correlations found between feelings of safety, knowledge of LSDVs, perceived ease of use, and technology adoption.
• Older drivers reported significantly lower agreement on ease of use and feeling safe with LSDVs compared to younger groups.
• Focus groups confirmed safety and knowledge as critical for LSDV adoption, with high interest in educational tools.

Conclusions:

• Safety and knowledge are paramount for encouraging older drivers' acceptance of limited self-driving vehicles.
• Educational interventions can effectively increase older adults' understanding and comfort with automated vehicle technology.
• Findings inform strategies for a safer, adoption-led transition to automated vehicles, prioritizing safety-conscious older drivers.