Benelux test with daytime running lights DRL : master plan for an evaluation study into the effect of DRL on road safety in the Benelux countries.

The Benelux test with DRL is regarded as a European pilot study. The results of the evaluation study will form the basis for the decision making process at a European level. The International Committee for DRL (IC-DRL) has made recommendations for study in its report: (1) the more long term effects; (2) observation and behavioural process as a consequence of DRL; (3) socio-psychological and socio-cultural backgrounds to the attitudes towards DRL; (4) the probability of accidents for people not using DRL, if the majority of the population does use DRL; (5) the development (or lack) of road safety for slow traffic and motorcyclists; (6) the searching behaviour of drivers and the changes in driving behaviour, based on the risk compensation theory with regard to speed; (7) energy consumption; (8) the optimal light intensity at which DRL is still "effective"; and (9) colour and colour contrast, DRl and the relationship of both factors to road safety. This report offers an overview of the studies which are designed to meet the above described recommendations, as well as the criticisms of a methodological and analytical nature that were expressed by the IC-DRL in relation to all preceding studies into the effect of DRL