Thursday, 17 November 2016
Adelaide based digital media producer Monkeystack has been engaged by Austroads to produce a library of car and motorcycle hazard perception test (HPT) videos which aim to reduce the crash risk of novice drivers and riders.
The clips, which will be produced using computer generated imagery (CGI), are in the initial phase of storyboard development in consultation with Austroads member agencies.
In a world first, the new high definition clips will incorporate specific scenarios for motorcycle riders and feature both car or motorcycle dashboard interfaces.
The project will modernise the HPTs currently in use and provide jurisdictions that do not have a HPT the opportunity to introduce the test to enhance their graduated licensing system.
The scripts for the videos were developed following an analysis of mass crash data and in-depth crash investigation data to determine the road and traffic hazards that are most problematic for novice drivers and motorcyclists.
Austroads Chief Executive, Nick Koukoulas said the project will improve novice driver and motorcycle rider safety.
“Young drivers and motorcyclists are over-represented in fatal and serious injury crashes and poor hazard perception skills have been shown to contribute to their crash involvement,” Nick said.
The computer based HPT measures a driver’s or rider’s ability to recognise potentially dangerous situations on the road and respond appropriately. The test is a key part of the licensing process in NSW, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland and has been shown to reduce the likelihood of crashes.
“I am particularly pleased that an Australian company was the successful tenderer for this project,” Nick said.
Established in 2004, Monkeystack has a reputation for high quality interactive and linear CGI productions. The team has won numerous international awards for simulated interactive content.
Director, Justin Wight, said the project’s goals align strongly with Monkeystack’s values.
“We aim to bring productions to life which bring benefit to others, in this instance contributing to greater road safety.”
“We’re proud to have been selected as the provider for the revised hazard perception test clips. Our team of Australian artists and technicians are dedicated to producing an exceptional result,” Justin said.
The project is expected to be completed by mid-2017.
Watch three example clips online
Motorcycle Hazard Perception Test clip