Nudges may improve hazard perception in a contextual manner

Abstract

This research investigates the effectiveness of nudge presentation on Hazard Perception (HP) during a computerized Hazard Perception Test (HPT). Three types of nudges were examined: Reminder, Social Norm, and Negative Reinforcement. Their effects on drivers’ reaction times, hazard misidentifications (errors), and hazard recognition failures (misses) were analyzed. Additionally, the study explored how demographic and personality factors relate to individual differences in nudge responses. Results indicated that nudge presentation, regardless of type, improved reaction times and reduced errors. Reduction in errors was uniquely associated with personal characteristics, showing a positive correlation with age. Specifically, female participants and individuals low in conscientiousness exhibited fewer errors following the Social Norm nudge, while males and highly conscientious individuals showed reduced errors after the Reminder nudge. However, misses were unaffected by nudge presentation. All tested dependent variables were influenced by the order of hazard presentation, reflecting both contextual and nudge presentation effects. To further investigate the order’s impact, a follow-up study examined specific hazards sensitive to nudge presentation. Findings revealed that some hazards were more influenced by nudge/contextual factors, while others were unaffected, highlighting the need to consider complex contextual dynamics in HP research. Overall, the study supports the conclusion that nudge presentation can positively influence HP without distracting drivers, offering a promising strategy for improving road safety.