Behaviors are generally a function of desired effects and knowledge about means of producing those effects. In using automobiles for the general activity of transportation, individuals may also have an implicit concern with maintaining their safety and their passengers' safety. This study involved self-reported practices and knowledge of procedures important for maximizing the safe use of automobiles. Subjects described their behaviors and evaluated some warnings used to provide safety information. They were also asked to indicate how relevant they thought the information in the warnings would be for them. Responses indicated support for previous findings that warnings employing standard procedures were more likely to be effective but also suggested many individuals were unaware of some existing warnings, as well as other sorts of safety information. Results are discussed in terms of the need for improving safety information, including warnings.
Abstract