One innovative approach to reducing crime and changing undesirable behavior links disorder, crime and fear. This theory, called "Broken Windows," argues that increased apathy and disorder attract criminals and lead to more serious crimes. Thus, reducing disorder can in turn reduce crime. In cities such as New York City which have applied the Broken Windows approach, city agencies partnered together on quality of life issues, managerial accountability was increased, a private sector management approach was adopted and information was shared between agencies. This article describes how the Broken Windows approach could be applied to transportation to influence driver behavior. In the transportation sector, illegal behavior would be addressed where it begins--on local and collector roads. All disorderly behavior would be addressed as soon as it was observed, and road users would be held responsible for even minor misdemeanors. Highways would also be better maintained to appear orderly and to send the vital message that someone cares.
Abstract