Changing driver behaviour through social norms
Distraction is a significant concern for teen drivers, because they more widely use technologies that are key sources of driver distraction and they lack critical strategic and tactical skills possessed by more experienced adult drivers. Parents and peers significantly impact the values, beliefs, and behaviours of teenagers. Through a survey study, we found that teenagers misperceived their parents’ and peers’ level of engagement and approval of distracted driving. Providing distraction-related feedback to teenagers on what their parents and peers do and think can help mitigate this dangerous activity by correcting such misperceptions. For example, such a system can show the teens how they compare to their parents in terms of engagement in distracting activities and the resulting driving performance. In the simulator, we showed that a social norms feedback system based on what the parents do can reduce the level of distraction engagement among the teens.
Changing young drivers’ behaviours using video game elements
Introducing elements commonly found in games - such as points and leaderboards - can increase the motivation towards and enjoyment of engaging in positive behavioral changes. We designed a gamified in-vehicle system dubbed RoadHero, that incorporates an overarching theme, avatars, and badges, to encourage young drivers to adopt safer driving behaviors. In a simulator study, we found that this gamified system reduced the rate and duration of long glances away from the road, which are known to increase crash risks. These initial findings show that gamification can reduce distracted driving in younger drivers, although much remains to be explored in applying gamification to road safety.
Using a reward system to reduce dangerous driving
Providing feedback and rewards to drivers may help them reduce their dangerous driving habits. We looked at the effects of a feedback-reward system on speeding and tailgating behaviours. Data was collected from 37 drivers in a field trial where feedback and rewards were provided to the drivers based on complying with speed limits and maintaining safe headway distances. Drivers collected rewards for compliant behaviour. In addition, an in-vehicle display provided drivers with real-time feedback when they were driving, in the form of warnings when they exceeded the speed limit or when they were tailgating. The system resulted increased speed limit and headway compliance. When the system was removed, the positive effect for speed limit compliance continued.
