Accommodation to the requirements of drivers with disabilities in IVHS

An examination of the needs of elderly and disabled drivers is undertaken to help ensure that the needs and characteristics of these road users are recognized in Intelligent Vehicle Highway System (IVHS) development. Perspectives and challenges encountered by elderly and disabled drivers are determined by interviewing a small sample of licensed drivers with disabilities. These special drivers are looking for (1) a driver's aide to simplify their tasks and to foretell road conditions (2) a set of tools to help with maintenance and operations, and (3) a group of features to help when touring. Visits to IVHS R&D centers in Michigan by members of the study team enable a comparison of IVHS gear with user expectations as well as the holding of discussions with R&D authorities.