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Close-following drivers on two-lane highways

S Rajalin1, S O Hassel, H Summala

  • 1Central Organization for Traffic Safety in Finland, Helsinki, Finland.

Accident; Analysis and Prevention
|November 25, 1997
PubMed
Summary

Close-following drivers commit more traffic offenses, especially young males. On two-lane roads, this behavior often stems from the need to overtake, driven by a desire for higher speeds.

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Area of Science:

  • Traffic Safety Research
  • Driver Behavior Analysis
  • Road Accident Prevention

Background:

  • Previous research by Evans and Wasielewski indicated a link between close-following and traffic offenses on multi-lane highways.
  • The specific driving behaviors and motivations behind close-following on two-lane highways require further investigation.
  • Understanding the relationship between driving habits and traffic violations is crucial for improving road safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To replicate findings on the correlation between close-following and traffic offenses on two-lane highways.
  • To identify the primary reasons and motivations behind close-following behavior in drivers.
  • To examine demographic differences, particularly gender and age, in the close-following and offense relationship.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of traffic offense records (3-year history) for close-following drivers (N=157) and control drivers (N=178).
  • Inclusion of mileage data to account for driving exposure in offense comparisons.
  • On-road interviews with a sample of close-following drivers to ascertain their motivations.

Main Results:

  • Close-following drivers accumulated 2.3 times more traffic offenses than control drivers, and 2.0 times more when mileage was considered.
  • This increased offense rate was primarily observed in male drivers, particularly young males.
  • Females exhibiting close-following showed a tendency for fewer offenses when higher mileage was factored in; stated reasons for close-following included hurry and overtaking desire.

Conclusions:

  • The study partially confirms the link between close-following and increased traffic offenses, consistent with prior research but specific to two-lane highways and certain demographics.
  • Close-following on two-lane roads appears significantly influenced by overtaking needs and maneuvers associated with higher target speeds.
  • The direct correlation between close-following and accident involvement, based on interindividual comparisons, remains an area requiring further research.

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