Title

Exploring the safety implications of young drivers' behavior, attitudes and perceptions

Authors

Authors

H. M. Hassan;M. A. Abdel-Aty

Comments

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Abbreviated Journal Title

Accid. Anal. Prev.

Keywords

Crash risk; Young drivers' behavior; Structural equation modeling; RISKY DRIVING BEHAVIOR; PASSENGER RESTRICTIONS; ACCIDENT INVOLVEMENT; SENSATION-SEEKING; TEENAGE DRIVERS; NOVICE DRIVERS; PERSONALITY; ANGER; Ergonomics; Public, Environmental & Occupational Health; Social; Sciences, Interdisciplinary; Transportation

Abstract

The present study aims at identifying and quantifying significant factors (i.e., demographic, aberrant driving behavior) associated with young drivers' involvement in at-fault crashes or traffic citations at the ages of 16-17 (while having the Operational License) and 18-24 years old (while having the Full License). A second objective was to investigate the main reason(s) for involvement in risky driving behavior by young drivers. The data used for the analyses were obtained from a self-reported questionnaire survey carried out among 680 young drivers in Central Florida. To achieve these goals, the structural equation modeling approach was adopted. The results revealed that aggressive violations, in-vehicle distractions and demographic characteristics were the significant factors affecting young drivers' involvement in at-fault crashes or traffic violations at the age of 16-17. However, in-vehicle distractions, attitudes toward speeding and demographic characteristics were the significant factors affecting young drivers' crash risk at 18-24. Additionally, the majority of participants reported that "running late" is the main reason for taking risk while driving (i.e., speeding, accept short gaps, or drive so close to the car in front) followed by "racing other cars". Additionally, "exceed speed limits" was the main reason for receiving traffic citations at 16-17 and 18-24 age groups. Practical suggestions on how to reduce crash risk and promote safe driving among young drivers are also discussed. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Journal Title

Accident Analysis and Prevention

Volume

50

Publication Date

1-1-2013

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

361

Last Page

370

WOS Identifier

WOS:000314191600042

ISSN

0001-4575

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