DRIVER IMPROVEMENT INDEX PILOT STUDY. FINAL REPORT

A linear discriminant function named the Driver Improvement Index, developed in previous research sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, was applied to a novel and expanded group of drivers to test its accuracy in classifying accident-involved versus non-accident-involved operators, using historical accident data. A superior level of accuracy for this instrument as compared to the number of points on a driver's record was clearly indicated, in terms of correct accident group classifications. Refinements to the instrument were suggested and also evaluated in this project. Driver improvement program treatments were developed, implemented, and evaluated in this research, targeted to three levels of demonstrated negligence (points). These interventions included an advisory/warning letter, a Special Written Point Examination, and a classroom exercise for small groups labeled Decisions for Safe Driving. While the letter achieved moderate effectiveness in violation reduction and the written examination achieved significant reductions in both accidents and violations, the class failed to demonstrate a benefit on either measure.

• Corporate Authors:

  Ketron Division of the Bionetics Corporation

  350 Technology Drive, Suite 20
  Malvern, PA  United States  19355

  Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

  Office of Research and Special Studies, P.O. Box 2926
  Harrisburg, PA  United States  17120
• Authors:
  • Staplin, Loren
  • Lococo, K
  • Knoebel, K
• Publication Date: 1992-5

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Appendices; Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 240 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Accuracy; Alternatives analysis; Behavior; Classification; Classroom driver instruction; Driver improvement programs; Driver performance; Driver records; Driver rehabilitation; Drivers; Driving tests; High risk drivers; Highway safety; Measures of effectiveness; Personnel performance; Pilot studies; Point demerit systems; Reduction (Chemistry); Safety; Traffic safety; Traffic violations; Warnings (Police operations)
• Identifier Terms: Driver improvement index (Pennsylvania)
• Uncontrolled Terms: Driver improvement; Effectiveness; Intervention; Modifications; Warning letters
• Old TRIS Terms: Driver classification; Pilot study; Points; Reduction
• Subject Areas: Highways; Safety and Human Factors; Security and Emergencies; I83: Accidents and the Human Factor;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00624960
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: PA-91-021+85-05, K222-000
• Files: TRIS, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Sep 18 1993 12:00AM