Modeling of Drivers’ Stop/Go Decision Behavior Based on Tradeoff of Risk and Benefit

Abstract:

Based on the empirical data collected at six signalized intersections in Shanghai, a drivers’ stop/go decision behavior model was developed by using the risk homeostasis theory (RHT) and the utility theory (UT). The study shows that the drivers’ stop/go decision behavior is significantly affected by the time of the red light and is tradeoff between traffic conflict risk and time saving benefit. The ratio of timetointersection (TTI) and waiting time of red light (R) of passenger car drivers is approximately 180∶1. Truck drivers are more aggressive on stop/go behavior than passenger car drivers, while drivers in urban district are more aggressive than drivers in suburban district. Moreover, the probability of severe traffic conflict is significantly increased by aggressive driving behavior.

Key words:signalized intersections; stop/go behavior; phase transition; risk homeostasis theory; utility theory