The issue of 'risk compensation' is discussed in relation to driving. It is suggested that humans are naturally inclined to accept a certain level of risk and if things are made safer for them, they just take more risks. For example 'driver-friendly' road design (straight roads with good visibility) encourages people to driver faster to save time and 'driver-friendly' vehicles (safety belts, air bags, automatic cruise control) encourage drivers to pay less attention to the road. The argument can be reversed by considering driver behaviour in response to more dangerous conditions. For example, in foggy conditions, drivers generally drive with greater care or attention. Driving requires alertness, attention and readiness to respond to the unexpected and being too relaxed can be as dangerous as being too aggressive. Drivers of 'safe' vehicles, e.g. 4x4s, sport utility vehicles, are likely to take risks that cause problems for other people. Research has shown that drivers of 4x4s are more likely to talk on mobile phones and not wear seat belts. The author concludes that drivers of such vehicles need to be safe but feel unsafe.
Abstract