Enhancing Road Safety: Developing and Testing Vulnerable Road User Activated Monitoring and Alert System. RACQ Mobility Centre (Mt Cotton) Field Study

What is the purpose of this research?

This field study is being undertaken as part of a collaborative study that aims to create a state-of-the-art Vulnerable Road User (VRU) Detection and Warning System that detects VRUs on or near roadways, providing timely warnings to motorists. Central to this endeavour is developing a sophisticated sensor system that leverages cutting-edge technology, including high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging for all-day, all-weather monitoring. These sensors are designed to detect VRUs with high accuracy within a range of 100 meters, ensuring that drivers receive ample warning to adjust their driving accordingly.

Are you looking for people like me?

You are invited to participate in this research project because you:

• have a valid Queensland (or interstate/international equivalent) Open or P (red or green) drivers’ licence
• are able to speak, read, and understand English (instructions will be in English)
• drive a minimum of 3 hours per week
• are contactable via mobile and/or email
• are able to get to the RACQ Mobility Centre (Mt Cotton) on your own
• have not participated in the simulator study of this VRU Project.

What will you ask me to do?

Participation in the study will take place at the RACQ Mobility Centre conveniently located in Mount Cotton, half an hour from Brisbane city. You will drive QUT’s Kia Niro a vehicle which has been modified, fitted with sensors on the roof and equipment in the back to record driver and vehicle movement data (pictured). The driving interior mechanism of the car is unchanged. During the drive you will be accompanied by a researcher. You will drive on purpose-built driving courses and tracks which have been designed to, simulate a range of real-life city and rural driving scenarios in a safe, controlled environment.

You will be asked to perform a number of driving tasks. The tasks involve a driving practice and vehicle familiarisation session of approximately 5 minutes, followed by two recorded driving tasks adding up to approximately 30 minutes duration. In addition to driving the  QUT Kia Niro, you will be asked to complete a survey. The survey will ask some brief demographic questions (age and gender, as well as driving experience) and your experiences in the driving session

Are there any risks for me in taking part?

There are nominal risks associated with your participation in this research project, driving a vehicle that you are unfamiliar with may cause anxiety. If you or someone close to you has previously experienced a road crash, please consider if participating in this study will cause you anxiety.

Are there any benefits for me in taking part?

It is expected that this research project will not benefit you directly. However, it may benefit others in the community however, it may benefit the community through advancing knowledge of how drivers respond when alerted and warned about the presence of Vulnerable Road Users.

Will I be compensated for my time?

To recognise your contribution should you choose to participate, the research team is offering a $100 electronic gift voucher (GiftPay.com.au) after the completion of the testing session. Should you after commencing the study for any reason be unable to complete the study you will receive a $25 electronic gift voucher (GiftPay.com.au).

I am interested - what should I do next?

Please enrol in the study by clicking on the link below.

Apply now

If you have any questions or require further information please contact

Project Research Officer    Wanda Griffin      wm.griffin@qut.edu.au