The Contribution of Safe Driving Training in Educating Drivers to Risk Perception

Abstract

The influence of safe-driving training on risk perception is not widely investigated actually. Aim of the present work is to examine if an increase in self-confidence and perception of ability, resulting from a safe-driving training, is associated to an increase in risk perception and awareness. 228 subjects took part in an eight-hours safe-driving training including four driving exercises, simulating risk situations in everyday driving contexts, such as someone suddenly crossing the road or driving on slippery road surface. Before and after the training, all the subjects were submitted a questionnaire to test the risk perception in everyday driving environment (RIPAQ, Risk Perception in Action Questionnaire). Repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant increase in the estimate of risk incidental to some situations, like “using your mobile while driving”, “not fastening the lifebelt” or “driving at a speed of 60km/h in the city center”, but not to other ones, as “avoiding slowing down next to a cross road”. Data are discussed in the light of the dual process theory about risk perception: the emotional component seems to be more aroused by the safe-driving experience than the analytic one.