Project Summary
This project will develop and validate hazard perception (HP) training for HGV drivers that can be delivered in virtual reality headsets.
Project Achievements
Activities • We reviewed previously filmed 360 video footage from an HGV to identify suitable clips for training purposes. • An HGV driver trainer was hired to review the clips to understand critical incident points. • These points were then scripted by our team of Traffic and Transport Psychologists. • An extensive video-editing phase took place to add animations and annotations to the clips, to demonstrate where drives should look, while an expert voiceover provided an explanation of why they should look in these places. • We evaluated the training using a randomised control trial with 31 HGV drivers.
Conclusions
• Drivers gave positive feedback on the training intervention, rating it as comfortable, realistic, immersive and engaging. Written responses also suggested the training module was well received. • They particularly like the VR approach, though we did not demonstrate a positive behaviour improvement for the trained drivers compared to the control group. This was however likely due to our small sample size. • We have achieved success in creating VR training clips that HGV drivers find acceptable. It is clear, however, that the content needs to be iterated, or perhaps refocused primarily on novice or learner HGV drivers/
Next Steps
• The positive feedback is sufficient justification to persevere with further development of the training. • We are actively seeking further funding to continue its development, as well as working with clients who will assist us in the evolution of our products. • As this product continues to evolve, we should see benefits to HGV companies, e.g., through the reduction of collision-related costs. • There is the potential for national economic benefits, as saving a single life represents a significant economic saving. Trained drivers will also reduce harsh acceleration/ braking, cutting fuel emissions and combating air pollution. Efficient fuel usage also reduces vehicle wear and tear.
