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Responding to nonverbal signals in traffic

A complex psychocognitive function that allows drivers to accurately and quickly perceive and interpret all non-verbal signals and gestures of other road users, and then take appropriate measures to reduce the likelihood of accidents and ensure road safety. These signals include a wide range of signals, such as hand gestures indicating requests to “give way” or “stop,” gaze direction that may indicate a pedestrian’s intention to cross the road, vehicle signals such as a turn, change of speed, or abrupt lane change, and cyclist and pedestrian movements that may signal potential hazards or sudden changes in traffic conditions. This concept reflects an advanced level of social awareness of traffic, as drivers do not rely solely on clear rules or official traffic lights, but instead constantly pay attention to subtle details and rapid changes in the behavior of others. It also requires a high level of spatio-temporal perception to anticipate the intentions of others before they materialize, as well as preventive evaluation skills to make flexible and quick decisions based on potential risk. Responding to non-verbal cues is therefore a critical component of safe behaviour on the road, as it combines social awareness, sustained attention, preventive anticipation and decision-making under time pressure, ensuring proper adaptation to dynamic and complex traffic situations.

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