REDUCED RISK DRIVING
A descriptive outline is presented of a course on the decision-making aspects of reduced-risk driving, in which major topics and subtopics readily lend themselves to both classroom and laboratory instruction. Driving is described as a risk-taking and a mental/physical activity. Driving risk is outlined under the following topics: the concept of risk, characteristics of risk in driving, guidelines for estimating risk, and principles of reduced-risk behavior. Perception is defined, and characteristics of human perception described. Perception of risk in driving is analyzed in terms of a mental exercise in risk perception, probability and consequences, organizing the perception of risk, visual search categories, and effective use of the eyes. The two important foundations upon which reduced-risk decisions must be built are discussed: application of the general principles of reduced-risk behavior, and the designation as most effective decisions those made and physically implemented before any danger occurs. In principle, risk is reduced when the probability of a dangerous event is reduced (both by the driver's operation of his own vehicle and actions he takes to influence the behavior of other drivers); the opportunity to manage a dangerous event is increased (by vehicle placement and selection of speed); and the consequences of any accident (or potential accident) are reduced. Specific guidelines are presented for implementing these principles.
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Supplemental Notes:
- Conference held in Washington, D.C., 18-23 May 1980. Also published in HS-029 680, International Motorcycle Safety Conference Proceedings. Volume 2, p 813-55.
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Corporate Authors:
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
780 Elkridge Landing Road
Linthicum, MD United States 21090 -
Authors:
- Carney, E
- Publication Date: 1980
Media Info
- Pagination: 43 p.
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Behavior; Decision making; Drivers; Driving; Hazards; Perception; Risk assessment
- Uncontrolled Terms: Visual search
- Old TRIS Terms: Driver perception
- Subject Areas: Safety and Human Factors;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 00390501
- Record Type: Publication
- Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- Report/Paper Numbers: HS-029 696
- Files: HSL, USDOT
- Created Date: Nov 30 1984 12:00AM