Assessing the Effectiveness of Driver Training Interventions in Improving Safe Engagement with Vehicle Automation Systems

2025-09-29

AI Summary

This study addresses driver misuse of adaptive cruise control (ACC) and lane-keeping assist (LKA) systems by evaluating the efficacy of brief, targeted training in enhancing safe human–automation interaction. Using a driving simulator, we conducted skill-based training and collected both self-reported (questionnaire) and objective behavioral data (system activation,接管 responses). A mixed-effects model and negative binomial regression compared three interventions: owner’s manual, knowledge-based instruction, and simulation-based practice. Results indicate that knowledge-based training significantly improved system comprehension (p < 0.01), increased safe ACC and LKA activation frequencies by 1.45× and 1.4×, respectively, and enhanced recognition of manual takeover scenarios. Its effectiveness surpassed that of conventional manuals and revealed age as a significant moderator of automation reliance. This work provides the first empirical validation that lightweight, cognition-oriented training effectively mitigates human–automation mismatch—particularly improving safety for older drivers.

Technology Category

• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Simulating Human Behavior
• Humans and AI: Interaction Techniques and Devices
• Application Domains: Mobility, Driving & Flight

Application Category

• Semantics and Knowledge: Data modeling to support human-machine intelligence, including LLMs agents, intelligent system behavior, explanations, and user-friendly interactions
• Responsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: User modeling and simulation for interactive and conversational systems

Abstract

This study investigates how targeted training interventions can improve safe driver interaction with vehicle automation (VA) systems, focusing on Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), both safety-critical advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Effective training reduces misuse and enhances road safety by promoting correct knowledge and application. A review of multiple automakers' owners' manuals revealed inconsistencies in describing ACC and LKA functions. Three training formats were compared: (1) owners' manual (OM), (2) knowledge-based (KB) with summarized operational guidelines and visual aids, and (3) skill-based hands-on practice in a driving simulator (SIM). Thirty-six participants with no prior VA experience were randomly assigned to one group. Safety-relevant outcomes - system comprehension (quiz scores) and real-world engagement (frequency and duration of activations) - were analyzed using mixed-effects and negative binomial models. KB training produced the greatest improvements in comprehension of system limitations, as well as safer engagement patterns. Compared with OM participants, KB participants achieved significantly higher quiz scores and engaged LKA and ACC more often (1.4 and 1.45 times, respectively); they also demonstrated greater awareness of scenarios requiring manual control, indicating reduced risk of inappropriate reliance. Older drivers exhibited longer activations overall, highlighting age-related differences in reliance and potential safety implications. Short, targeted training can significantly improve safe and effective VA system use, particularly for senior drivers. These results highlight training as a proactive safety intervention to reduce human-automation mismatch and enhance system reliability in real-world driving.

Problem

• Evaluating training methods for safe driver interaction with vehicle automation systems
• Assessing how training reduces misuse of Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist
• Investigating age-related differences in automation reliance and safety implications

Innovation

• Training improves driver interaction with automation systems
• Knowledge-based training enhances system limitation comprehension
• Skill-based simulator practice promotes safer engagement patterns