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Low-range, mid-range and high-range speeding: The association with speeding habits, perceived legitimacy and
Bonnie Huang1, Natalie Watson-Brown2, Verity Truelove1
1MAIC/University of the Sunshine Coast Road Safety Research Collaboration, School of Law and Society, 90 Sippy Downs Dr, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556, Australia.
Speeding behaviors are linked to habit and deterrence. Encouraging good driving habits and improving detection of speeding are key to reducing crashes and injuries globally.
Area of Science:
- Road Safety
- Traffic Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Speeding is a major global road safety issue, causing numerous fatal crashes and severe injuries.
- Identifying modifiable factors related to speeding is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between habit, perceived legitimacy of enforcement, and deterrence factors with varying levels of speeding behavior.
- Investigate speeding on urban versus open roads.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was conducted with 870 participants (aged over 17).
- Participants reported speeding behaviors in low (<10 km/hr), mid (10-20 km/hr), and high (>20 km/hr) ranges over the speed limit.
Main Results:
- 80% reported low-range, 40% mid-range, and 20% high-range speeding.
- Mid- and high-range speeding were more prevalent on open roads.
- Habit and deterrence significantly predicted all speeding levels; perceived legitimacy predicted only high-range speeding.
Conclusions:
- Countermeasures promoting positive speed habits are recommended.
- Enhanced deterrence measures, including improved detection, are needed to curb speeding.
- Current punishments are perceived as effective deterrents for all speeding levels.
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