As the old adage goes, time is money, and Northern Virginians spend a lot of time (and gas money) sitting in backed-up traffic on major roadways like Interstate 66 and the Beltway. Now, thanks to one of the 270 active studies conducted by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, drivers traveling on I-66, I-495, U.S. Route 29 or U.S. 50 with cars equipped with adaptive cruise control can earn up to $3,850 if they participate in the study for one year.
Participation in the VTTI Elite Study requires that individuals initially perform online driver assessments, get three data collecting cameras (two mounted on the vehicle’s ceiling looking out each windshield and another below the rearview mirror) installed and schedule periodic appointments with VTTI to exchange the data. The cameras will only collect video information, not audio information, and VTTI has taken measures to protect participant privacy.
Drivers will also need to regularly navigate the aforementioned highways and make use of VTTI’s Advanced Traveler Information System smartphone app. The navigation system provides real-time travel data, including traffic incidents, congestion areas, weather conditions, safety concerns and construction zones.
Northern Virginia Magazine reached out to VTTI for comment, but the organization could not share additional study details due to Institutional Review Board restrictions.
Researchers hope to gain insight into how drivers of cars with advanced automation technology take advantage of navigation apps like the ATIS. Information collected could also be used to potentially improve traffic patterns in the future.
Those who are interested in participating can call 540-231-1583 or email novadrivers@vtti.vt.edu for more information.
