Can you simulate traffic psychology? An analysis

Contemporary traffic simulation frameworks use sophisticated physical- or mathematical models to “mimic” traffic systems in a lifelike fashion. Nevertheless, when it comes to road traffic, there seems to be no parameter more essential than the driver himself. Most frameworks neglect human factors in traffic entirely, or “estimate” a particular form of human behavior without providing any connection to reality. In this work we aim to establish such connection. We explain driver behavior from a psychological perspective and analyze the most important (psychological) driver behavior conceptualizations in order to identify crucial factors of human traffic behavior. Based on this analysis we examine the ability of state-of-the-art traffic simulation to account for these factors. It is our intention to determine the capabilities of traffic simulation frameworks, to point out perspectives for future research and to provide a guideline for the selection of the right traffic simulation system.