Travelers´ ability to observe changes in traffic intensities and traffic light settings

Travel choice behavior is an important determinant in traffic and subject to human imperfection and bounded rationality. In decision-making processes travelers seldom act perfectly rational. Traffic models and traffic network management measure could become more realistic and effective, if travelers´ (dis)abilities, reasoning and perception are better understood and taken into consideration. The aims of this study were: (1) to determine travelers´ ability to detect changing traffic intensities and traffic light setting on their trip, and (2) to determine how travelers estimate the value of such changes. The survey results show that travelers are more sensitive to changes in traffic light settings than to changes in traffic intensities, but in general unable to observe all changes in traffic conditions. Besides, a relative large group of travelers perceive the opposite of what they actually experience.