This paper reviews the research at Reading University on drivers' speed choice. It was decided to develop a simulator test of speeding. The advantages of using simulators include greater controllability, the possibility of investigating more dangerous situations, and the ability to study a wide range of situations in a short time. The use of non-interactive video-based simulation greatly decreases costs. Three areas of research are described: (1) the measurement of speed choice; (2) the manipulation of speed choice by investigating the effects of auditory feedback, perceived control, and hazard perception training; and (3) the study of differential influences on speed choice and the understanding of what motivates speed choice. The results obtained support several ways of reducing speeding, including reducing drivers' optimism about their skill and invulnerability, changing their perceptual cues for judging speed, and providing appropriate training.
Abstract