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This paper discusses recent developments and application of driving simulators. Simulation of driving via films has been used for a number of years as a driver education tool. More recently, interactive simulators have been developed for research and training applications. Improvements are accelerating due to a combination of ongoing research needs, and general state of the art advances in hardware and software technology. Modern simulator requirements are reviewed from the point of view of both driver characteristics (vision, audition, proprioception, vestibular motion sensation) and task demands (e.g., steering and speed control, risk perception, decision making, general workload level). A variety of simulator applications are summarized, including comparison with subsequent field tests. These applications include studies involving drunk driving and risk taking, reduced visibility and delineation, and signing.

For almost twenty years, researchers have attempted to develop an in-vehicle system which would prevent an impaired driver from operating his or her motor vehicle. These systems have ranged from breath testers to psychomotor tests, and have prevented operation of the vehicle by such methods as preventing the vehicle from starting or alerting drivers, and the police through alarm systems. This paper discusses the background leading to an in-vehicle system which was built and tested. We also discuss the system and its components, and present the results of two tests involving convicted drunk drivers. While the primary purpose of this project was to determine the feasibility of this type of system, the results of the two tests show promise for the reduction of impaired driving trips.