Age-Related Differences in Driver Decision-Making During Safety-Critical Situations

Abstract

Crystallized intelligence (CI), the ability to use accumulated knowledge, is known to improve with age. Driving is an example where CI is applied, especially among older adults with extensive experience. However, most aging and driving research focuses on age-related declines. This study instead explores how experience influences decision-making in safetycritical driving situations across age groups. An online survey was conducted with 299 U.S. drivers who watched 24 highway driving videos, each ending just before a safety-critical event. Scenarios varied by traffic conditions and obstacle type. Participants selected the response they felt was most appropriate. Results showed that older drivers were significantly more likely to choose “brake” or “take no action” rather than “steer,” compared to younger adults. Study results can help identify ways in which older adults apply their knowledge of driving and also inform the design of vehicle systems to account for differences in decision-making strategies.