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Comparative effects of driver improvement programs on crashes and violations.
D L Struckman-Johnson1, A K Lund, A F Williams
1University of South Dakota, Vermillion 57069.
Accident; Analysis and Prevention
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Driver improvement programs effectively reduce traffic violations but their impact on crashes is inconsistent. Methodological reviews show these programs generally improve driver behavior without a guaranteed reduction in accidents.
Area of Science:
- Traffic Safety Research
- Behavioral Science
- Program Evaluation
Background:
- Driver improvement programs aim to reduce traffic violations and crashes.
- Previous evaluations suggest mixed results, with some programs reducing violations but not crashes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review driver improvement program evaluations.
- To determine the generalizability of findings regarding violation and crash effects.
- To explore explanations for the discrepancy between violation and crash outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of 65 studies evaluating driver improvement activities.
- Inclusion of 19 methodologically adequate studies for detailed analysis.
- Analysis of effects on both violations and crashes.
Main Results:
- Driver improvement activities consistently reduce traffic violations.
- Crash reduction effects are unpredictable and sometimes negative, despite violation reductions.
- Lack of correspondence is not due to statistical power or violation type.
Conclusions:
- Driver improvement programs are effective in reducing violations.
- The impact on crashes remains unpredictable and requires further investigation.
- Intervention characteristics like contact type do not strongly explain differential outcomes.