This paper shows how researchers at Manchester University used TPB (the theory of planned behaviour) to study driving violations. The research's theoretical goal was to test the predictive utility of a driver behaviour model in the context of driving violations. Its applied goal was to use the model to identify the determinant of violating behaviours, and thus be in a better position to change them. The first TPB study examined the model's ability to account for variations in intentions to commit four driving violations: drink-driving, speeding, close following and dangerous overtaking. The second study used an extension of the model to study cutting across traffic to leave a motorway, weaving in and out of two lanes of slow-moving traffic, and overtaking on the inside. The third study refined this model by taking more account of the affective component of attitudes. The fourth study added measures of habit and personal identity to the model. In each study, it was possible to identify factors that distinguished intenders from non-intenders.
Abstract