Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Road traffic accidents are a leading cause of preventable deaths, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Traditional safety research has emphasized mechanical, infrastructural, and behavioral determinants, yet the neurocognitive basis of human responses during impending collisions remains underexplored. This paper introduces the concept of the Symmetry Reflex, hypothesized as an unconscious derivative of the mirror neuron system that governs rapid motor responses in high-stakes driving scenarios. Building on behavioral neuroscience, emergency reflexes, and situational awareness theory, the study proposes an Acute Situational Response Model (ASRM) to integrate these mechanisms into road safety science. A conceptual and literature-based synthesis was employed, drawing on existing research in neuroscience, psychology, and accident prevention. The findings highlight a critical gap: while safety frameworks address physical and behavioral elements, they overlook neurocognitive reflexes that may determine survival outcomes during accidents. The proposed framework suggests that enhancing awareness and training around reflexive responses could complement traditional interventions, especially in regions with high accident burden such as India. Although theoretical, this work establishes a foundation for experimental validation through neuroimaging, simulation studies, and behavioral training. The ASRM offers a novel direction for public health, policy, and technological innovation in accident prevention.
Author: Bhibhu Bhushan
Language: English
Topic: Traffic and Road Safety
Subfield: Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4414705053
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