Road rule enforcement and where to find it: An investigation of applications used to avoid detection when violating traffic rules

Verity Truelove; Michelle Nicolls; Kayla B Stefanidis; Oscar Oviedo-Trespalacios

doi:10.1016/j.jsr.2023.08.015

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Road rule enforcement and where to find it: An investigation of applications used to avoid detection when violating traffic rules

Journal article

Peer reviewed

Road rule enforcement and where to find it: An investigation of applications used to avoid detection when violating traffic rules

Verity Truelove, Michelle Nicolls, Kayla B Stefanidis and Oscar Oviedo-Trespalacios

Journal of Safety Research, Vol.87, pp.431-445

2023

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsr.2023.08.015

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Abstract

deterrence

distraction

punishment avoidance

road safety

speeding

technology

Introduction: One of the primary countermeasures in place to prevent road rule violations is legal enforcement, yet there are numerous applications that can undermine such efforts by notifying drivers of enforcement locations. However, the capabilities of these applications and how they can impact offending behavior is currently unknown. Method: Two studies were conducted to understand which of these applications are being used by drivers and how these applications are impacting road rule violations. Study 1 consisted of a content analysis that involved searching the Google Play Store and Apple iTunes Store for applications that could be used to avoid road rule violations using pre-determined keywords. Meanwhile, Study 2 consisted of 468 licensed Australian drivers (54.5% males) over the age of 17 years (Mage = 35 years) who completed a survey. Results: A total of 73 applications were identified for Study 1, with most of the applications displaying speed camera locations. It was found that applications that notify drivers of traffic enforcement locations are widely prevalent, can be used on a variety of interfaces and include numerous additional features. Study 2 found that those who use the applications were more willing to speed than those who do not use the applications, while there was no difference in phone use while driving between those who do and do not use the applications. Practical Applications: The findings have important implications for stakeholders, policy, and future research. For example, it is suggested that specific functions of these applications need to be regulated to reduce road rule violations and crash risk. Meanwhile, enforcement initiatives need to evolve at a faster rate to keep up to date with the changing technology that can undermine them.

Details

Title: Road rule enforcement and where to find it: An investigation of applications used to avoid detection when violating traffic rules
Authors: Verity Truelove (Corresponding Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Road Safety Research Collaboration
Michelle Nicolls (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Road Safety Research Collaboration
Kayla B Stefanidis (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Road Safety Research Collaboration
Oscar Oviedo-Trespalacios (Author) - Delft University of Technology
Publication details: Journal of Safety Research, Vol.87, pp.431-445
Publisher: Elsevier Ltd
DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2023.08.015
ISSN: 1879-1247
Grant note: Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) Queensland
Organisation Unit: Road Safety Research Collaboration; School of Law and Society; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99966897302621
Output Type: Journal article

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