The author considers research into the behaviour of drivers and its relation to road accidents. Evidence is outlined which suggests that driving behaviour may correspond to national stereotypes, to experience or to personality type. Experience in particular is thought to be implicated in aggressive driving and this is borne out by the behaviour of young male drivers and newly motorised nations. A number of studies are described from America which made a comprehensive examination of the personal characteristics of drivers involved in accidents. A number of personal factors were positively correlated with the tendency to have accidents but this was insufficiently significant to base a programme of action on. The possibility of changing driver behaviour is considered and evidence of this being achieved in connection with seat belts in Australia is described.
Abstract