Evaluation of the effects of daytime running lights for passenger cars

Abstract

Research trying to determine the impact of the use of daytime running lights (DRL), in vehicles, on road safety are lasting throughout the decades. The largest number of previous studies were focused on the search for a relationship between the use of daytime running lights and the number of traffic accidents. As the occurrence of accidents is affected by many factors, this paper examines whether there are differences in drivel's estimation of passenger car speed when daytime running lights are turned on or off. In order to examine these issues in more details, driving simulator research was conducted. The respondents estimated passenger car speed of 30 km/h, 50 km/h, 70 km/h and 90 km/h, in both conditions (with and without DRL). The results of this research clearly indicate that there are differences in the estimation of passenger car speed when DRL are turned on or off. These differences are statistically significant for higher vehicle speeds (70 km/h and 90 km/h). Furthermore, demographic factors, frequency of driving, as well as involvement in traffic accidents, show significant impact on vehicle speed estimation. The recommended measures (that imply the usage of the DRL only outside of the residential areas), would greatly contribute to the protection and preservation of the environment, primarily in built-up areas.