A recurrent neural network model for predicting two-leader car-following behavior

Unlike lane-based traffic where each driver has a distinct leader, the subject driver in disorderly traffic may interact with multiple vehicles in-front. The existence of lateral interactions among the vehicles in-front adds even more complexity to modeling the human-driving process. Utilizing trajectory data extracted from an instrumented vehicle study, this research attempts to propose a gated recurrent unit neural network model to predict responses of vehicles interacting with two leading vehicles simultaneously. The recurrent neural network model can illustrate realistic human-like following behavior of drivers, much better than the classical optimal velocity-based models in terms of trajectory reproducing accuracy. The model can also explain the closing-in, shying-away behavior and local stability properties. Results of the study provide insights into the driving behavioral phenomena of disorderly traffic flows and can contribute to the development of a realistic microsimulation model, smarter autonomous systems, and in-traffic safety evaluation as well.