tech
Motorway traffic drones are coming to UK roads, but will they drive us to distraction?
National Highways agency uses virtual reality test to see if drivers are distracted by introduction of low-flying drones
TL;DR
- National Highways is testing the impact of low-flying drones on driver distraction.
- The drones are intended for monitoring the condition of motorways and A-roads.
- Smaller drones flying at 10-20 meters are proposed as a cheaper and more detailed alternative to current methods.
- Virtual reality simulations measured driver responses, including heart rate, pupil dilation, and driving control.
- Tests have been conducted with regular drivers and heavy goods vehicle drivers.
- About half of participants noticed the drones, but significantly fewer considered them hazardous.
- The methodology is generating international interest from Australia and the US.
- One participant suggested that if a drone distracts a driver, they may have more significant driving issues.