The aim of the current study was to determine whether drivers’ responses to stopped and slow-moving lead vehicles transition gradually in phases, each associated with a distinct optical expansion rate. We also examined whether results were affected by a cell phone conversation and expectancy. We used a driving simulator to assess six response inputs of (1) begins to release the accelerator, (2) releases accelerator completely, (3) starts to press brake (4) comfort-level braking (5) unanticipated-level braking and (6) brake pedal pressed more than 90 percent. Optical expansion rate differed among the first four inputs (the fifth and sixth did not occur enough to analyze), meaning drivers respond to lead vehicles in phases. When drivers were not engaged in a cell phone conversation, optical expansion rate for the perceptual event preceding unanticipated braking was greater when the lead vehicle was stopped compared to slowed. Expectancy did not affect optical expansion rates.

Studies suggest facemask wearing and social distancing are convenient ways to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. However, people might feel an unwarranted sense of safety when engaging in these COVID-prevention behaviors, as predicted by risk compensation theory. Our field research evaluated whether risk compensation influences facemask wearing and social distancing. The evidence-based theory of risk homeostasis presumes individuals will take more risks when they feel more protected. Therefore, someone wearing a facemask should feel safer and subsequently stand closer to others. Research students tested this theory by observing facemask wearing and social distancing in various locations. These students recorded three different observations in a Qualtrics survey: 1) an individual’s gender, 2) mask-wearing behavior (wearing a facemask, wearing a facemask incorrectly, or not wearing a facemask), and 3) the estimated distance between the individual and the nearest person within a six-foot radius. Our field observations of 2,068 individuals revealed that people wearing a facemask maintained greater social/interpersonal distances than did people not wearing a facemask or wearing a facemask incorrectly. This finding supports response generalization or a positive spillover effect rather than risk compensation.