Behavioural strategies for enhancing road safety through passengers

Several epidemiological studies have shown that the crash risk of drivers is affected, either positively or negatively, by the presence of passengers. Very little is currently known, however, about the behavioural interactions between drivers and passengers which moderate these effects. This paper presents the key findings of a study currently being undertaken by the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC). As part of the study, a telephone survey was administered to 872 residents of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) exploring the roles which passengers currently play in the driving situation. In addition, three focus groups, comprised of 28 ACT residents overall, were conducted, investigating drivers' perceptions and reactions to these roles. The outcomes of this study will be used to identify constructive roles that passengers can play to positively influence driver behaviour, and to develop countermeasures to facilitate constructive interactions. between passengers and their drivers that enhance safety. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see IRRD abstract no. E202589.