In the Driving Task Model Hierarchy of Decision Making, what is the first step?

In the Driving Task Model Hierarchy of Decision Making, the first step is control. This step involves the fundamental actions required to operate the vehicle safely and effectively. Control encompasses managing the vehicle's speed, steering, braking, and other immediate physical responses needed to navigate the driving environment.

Control is essential because it creates the baseline for further decision-making and actions. Without precise control, a driver cannot adequately respond to changing conditions on the road. Mastery of control is crucial, as it allows for the execution of more complex tasks, such as guidance, navigation, and evaluation, which build upon this foundational skill. Thus, control serves as the cornerstone for a driver's ability to engage in subsequent decision-making processes while driving.