California Partners for Advanced Transportation Technology

This paper discusses the effects of collisions in vehicle-following operations, especially for short-spacing scenarios. The collision analysis is conducted with a two-dimensional simulation program by which the translational and rotational movements of vehicles can be fully represented. Also presented are simulation scenarios where control actions are taken in post-impact conditions. The potential implications and the effects of these maneuvers on the vehicle trajectories are investigated. The studies of these post-impact maneuvers offer a perspective on the possible actions for vehicles in automated modes. The current and future work of this study should provide insights for the evaluation of the safety hazards and control strategies in Automated Highway Systems.