In order to gain an understanding of drivers's knowledge of road safety matters in developing countries, drivers in Jamaica, Pakistan and Thailand were asked questions about traffic rules and recommended driving procedures. Only with a few topics was a widespread lack of knowledge evident in each country. In all three countries most of the drivers considerably underestimated their vehicle stopping distances. In Jamaica and Pakistan many drivers did not know the give-way rules at roundabouts, correct observation procedures at junctions and the meaning of flashing headlights. In addition, several drivers in Pakistan gave wrong answers to questions on traffic lights, give-way signs and stop signs. Most drivers in this study gave correct answers to the pedestrian crossing questions, yet, in an earlier study, the majority of the large number of drivers observed failed to give way for pedestrians on uncontrolled crossings. It is likely that they did so knowing that they should have stopped. It is recommended that further research be carried out so that appropriate remedial measures can be selected to improve road user behaviour in developing countries. (Author/publisher)
Abstract