Quasi-Experimental Trial Examining the Effectiveness of Driver Training Modules on Simulated Driving Performance in Young Drivers

Young and novice drivers have the highest representation of driver injuries and fatalities. While driver education provides in-class and in-car exposure to the driving environment, the use of driving simulators can further expose challenging driving environments that are not typically provided as part of current driver education programs. The aim of this study was to examine and compare the delivery of a driver training program on simulated driving performance and confidence in young drivers. Sixty participants (aged 15–20; 66% male) completed cognitive and visual assessments, a driving comfort scale, and a pre-test simulated drive. Subsequently, participants were assigned to: (1) an intervention with feedback group (n = 20), (2) an intervention without feedback group (n = 20), or (3) control group (n = 20). Intervention group participants completed fifteen training scenarios, and all participants completed a post-test simulated drive and driving confidence scale. Outcome measures assessed on the simulator were driving errors (e.g., speed, vehicle position, braking distance) and the number of collisions. Across all groups, simulated crashes significantly decreased and driving confidence significantly increased post-test. Training with feedback produced the most consistent improvements, including improved speed regulation and safer following distances. All participants reported greater confidence in challenging conditions such as heavy rain, snow, icy roads, and night driving. Findings indicate that high-fidelity simulation, particularly when paired with structured feedback, can improve novice drivers’ skills and confidence, supporting simulation as a valuable complement to traditional driver education.