Keywords

offsetting behavior, speed limits, driver behavior

Abstract

This thesis presents an econometric test of the offsetting behavior hypothesis concerning drivers of light trucks relative to cars. The main objective is to determine whether drivers of light trucks offset perceived safety benefits associated with larger vehicles by driving more aggressively than drivers of cars, subsequently causing more fatal crashes, holding all else constant. An empirical model using data on pedestrian fatalities across the United States over a five-year period is developed and analyzed in order to capture the desired results. Estimates provide substantial evidence in support of the offsetting behavior hypothesis. To strengthen the case for driver offsetting behavior beyond previous studies, the model is estimated again using pedalcyclist fatalities. The results also point to interesting conclusions regarding the effects of increased speed limits on the behavior of drivers.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2005

Semester

Summer

Advisor

Caputo, Michael

Degree

Master of Arts (M.A.)

College

College of Business Administration

Department

Economics

Degree Program

Applied Economics

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0000579

URL

http://purl.fcla.edu/fcla/etd/CFE0000579

Language

English

Release Date

August 2005

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

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Included in

Economics Commons

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