The problem of reproducing driver behaviour in a controlled situation is discussed. An account is then given of a two year study carried out at the University of Southampton into the effects of age and experience on driving style and risk taking. Three approaches were used: a) the Route Survey where drivers were accompanied by a Route Director and Assessor on a 40 km long route incorporating both urban and rural roads, b) the Driving Log which required drivers to keep a record of journey details, passengers, weather and state of mind and c) an interview which elicited information on attitudes to a range of topics together with data on accidents and violations. A high correlation was found between performance on the route survey and answers to the questionnaire. The results are analyzed with respect to age and sex and further investigations carried out into variation within a group. The presence of passengers is found to have a marked effect in all groups but particularly among young males. The author suggests that an understanding of young drivers needs to take full account of the social aspects of driving and that specific awareness should be included in training.
Abstract