Risk taking in male taxi drivers: Relationships among personality, observational data and driver records

Abstract

This study examined the ‘risk-taking’ personality correlates of field measures of driver behaviour and driving records. Seventy-nine male taxi drivers were unobtrusively observed as they travelled a common route by two confederates presenting themselves as regular passengers. Fifty-one of these drivers (aged 20–60 yr, mean 37) responded to several questionnaires, and gave permission to have their driving records examined. Analyses suggested that subjects who report a need for more tension, risk and adventure in their lives (High Risk Personality) exhibit a driving style characterized by such actions as travelling at excessive speeds and carelessly changing lanes. Subjects who report taking more risks for its arousal and pleasurable sensation (Sensation Seeking) are more frequently convicted of speeding violations and other traffic violations. No relationship was found between collision history and personality or observed driving behaviour.