Influencing factors on drivers’ support for traffic safety laws in Canada

Abstract

Over the past few years, significant progress has been made in the road engineering, which along with the implementation of safety laws and regulations, has improved the overall road safety. However, traffic accidents and road injuries are still a leading global cause of death. The propensity of traffic violations and risky behaviors among drivers is closely linked to their perception of the threat associated with them, and the level of support for regulations. This study investigates the various components of drivers’ perceptions and their impact on the drivers’ support of safety laws through Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Additionally, factor analysis is employed to categorize interrelated responses into distinct factors. The findings indicate that drivers’ perception of social disapproval of risky driving behaviors and their awareness of safety problems significantly influence the drivers’ personal disapproval of risky driving behaviors. Notably, drivers' disapproval directly correlates with their support for laws prohibiting these behaviors. In light of these findings, this study suggests increasing public awareness and driver education regarding the risks associated with dangerous driving behaviors, particularly not-wearing seat belt and texting while driving. This recommendation aims to improve Canada’s traffic safety culture through the influence of social norm and understanding of the safety issues on the drivers’ personal perceptions and, subsequently, their support for traffic safety regulations.