Development and Effectiveness Analysis of a Visual Assistive Device for Preventing Pedal Confusion in Elderly Drivers

Objective: This study aimed to develop a visual assistive device to prevent pedal confusion accidents and analyze its effectiveness and necessity. Methods : The study participants consisted of five elderly drivers who had experienced pedal confusion, and the analysis was conducted using the self-report driving assessment tool, SAFE-DR (Self-report Assessment Forecasting Elderly Driving Risk), as well as a survey on willingness to use the device and interviews regarding their experiences with pedal confusion. Results : The self-reported assessments of the drivers who had experienced pedal confusion revealed that all participants were taking medications daily. Additionally, they reported difficulties with reading small print, reversing, navigating through complex intersections, and quickly pressing the brake pedal. In the survey on the visual assistive device, all respondents expressed a willingness to use the device and indicated that they believed it would help prevent pedal confusion. Conclusion : This study developed a visual aid device to prevent pedal confusion among elderly drivers and analyzed its effectiveness and necessity based on feedback from drivers who had experienced pedal confusion. The findings suggest that the visual aid device can contribute to reducing the likelihood of pedal confusion in elderly drivers, thereby positively impacting traffic accident prevention and driver safety.