A set of strategies and behaviours used by drivers to compensate for deficits in cognitive, sensory, motor or emotional abilities while driving in order to reduce risk and improve road safety. This behaviour reflects the driver’s ability to intelligently adapt to personal and external constraints to ensure efficient and safe driving in a variety of complex and changing driving situations.
Forms of compensatory behaviour in the context of traffic:
1) Cognitive and sensory compensation:
– Driving more slowly in the dark or fog to compensate for poor visibility.
– Increased attention to mirrors and blind spots to compensate for the limited field of vision.
2) Motor Compensation:
– Increasing the safe distance between vehicles to compensate for slow braking or poor braking control.
– Applying early braking when the distance or speed is not accurately estimated.
3) Cognitive compensation:
– Preliminary route planning before passing through difficult intersections.
– Using maps and navigation apps to avoid confusion or choosing unsafe routes.
4) Emotional compensation:
– Managing stress and anger to compensate for the impact of negative emotions on decision-making speed and attention.
– Implementing emotion regulation strategies to prevent aggression or reckless behavior.