Evaluation Method for Driving Safety on Highway Successive Curves

To evaluate the driving safety performance of continuous curves, this study developed a safety assessment model using a human-computer interaction simulation platform. First, three indicators are selected, including the driver’s heart rate variability, the rate of change in steering wheel angle, and trajectory lateral deviation, which together form a driving safety evaluation indicator system. Secondly, through significance testing and range analysis. Through analysis, four key curve-related elements are identified as having a notable influence on the overall evaluation indicators. A global optimization algorithm using multivariate nonlinear regression is then applied to establish the driving safety model. Finally, taking a dual four-lane highway in Sichuan province as an example, the safety of the successive curve in the project is evaluated. Empirical results show that when the intermediate straight line section H ≤ 4.23, driving is hazardous; 4.23 < H ≤ 4.46, driving is relatively hazardous; 4.46 < H ≤ 4.78, driving is relatively safe; H > 4.78, driving is safe. For oval-shaped curve segments, when H ≤ 4.53, driving is hazardous; 4.53 < H ≤ 5.32, driving is relatively hazardous; 5.32 < H ≤ 5.86, driving is relatively safe; H > 5.86, driving is safe. Through this method, the driving safety of successive curves can be effectively evaluated, particularly with a focus on driver comfort and safety. This provides valuable references for assessing driving risks associated with different combinations of curve elements.