A detailed examination is conducted of 7 driver improvement studies with the following factors rated: interview procedures, driver characteristics, control group methodology, behavioral criteria, and subsequent driving. It is concluded that driver improvement procedures as currently employed are reasonably effective in reducing traffic violations. By contrast, accident reduction is reported in only two of the seven studies. The driver improvement programs that have demonstrated effects on subsequent traffic accident experience involve one-to-one contacts with highly individualized content, administered by intensively trained interviewers. Detailed procedural formats and the use of driver knowledge and other test materials may be contributory factors. A more extensive enumeration is given of program needs grouped according to three headings: (1) research planning, (2) program diversification, and (3) theoretical models.
Abstract