Operational hazard anticipation: an analysis of overt anticipatory behaviors in experienced and inexperienced drivers

Perceptual-cognitive skills like anticipating and mitigating hazards may contribute to young drivers' increased risk of fatal crashes. Operational hazard anticipation (OHA) is a novel concept that may bridge hazard anticipation and mitigation. OHA is the act of engaging in anticipatory actions in preparation for possible hazard mitigation. This exploratory study examined a potential measure of OHA, hovering one's foot over the brake and accelerator, and its relationship with tactical hazard anticipation (fixating on a hazard). Inexperienced and experienced drivers drove simulator scenarios, with materialised and latent hazards. Experienced drivers engaged in OHA behaviours more frequently than inexperienced drivers. OHA behaviours were more frequent in materialised compared to latent hazards. Participants' average OHA score was positively correlated to success rates in avoiding a collision when the hazard materialised. Findings demonstrate OHA as a skill distinct from tactical hazard anticipation and offer insights into training young drivers to avoid road hazards.