Speeding substantially reduces road safety, and despite efforts to reduce speeding it remains the norm. This research surveyed licenced drivers in metropolitan Sydney, regional NSW, and rural NSW on their attitudes, experience and behaviour in relation to speeding. A significant group (24.0%) of respondents reported being likely to speed “under typical conditions in the middle of the day”. Self-reported speeding was less likely under poor conditions and near schools, and more likely in situations where it has clear benefits and is perceived as unlikely to result in crashing or being booked. Self-reported speeding was more likely amongst respondents who were male, younger, more educated, and single, and who had held their license for a shorter period. Respondents recognized that speeding poses a threat to safety, and acceptance of current speed limits and penalties for speeding was relatively high. The research recommends that campaigns aim to identify that speeding is likely to result in crashing or being penalised, and encourage social disapproval of speeding. In particular, campaigns should address the perception that speeding can be safe under any circumstances. (Author/publisher)
Abstract