Risk Perception, Risk-Taking Attitude and Risky Driving Behavior Among Drivers in Ghana

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the relationship between driver’s risk perception, risk-taking attitudes and risky driving behavior. The purpose of the study was to explain the variance in risky driving behavior, an outcome variable, as accounted for by risk perception and risk-taking attitude and to expand the knowledge of these personality factors (risk perception and risk-taking attitude) that contribute to the increased levels of road traffic accidents in Ghana. The cross-sectional survey design was used to examine the relationships between the variables of interest. Convenience sampling techniques was applied to select 529 drivers from three study areas.

Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the variance in the outcome variable, explained by the predictor variables. Results from the analysis revealed significant relationships between risk perception, risk-taking attitude and risky driving behavior. Further, significant variances were found for the predictors and outcome variable. Gender, Experience and vehicle type operated (commercial or private vehicles) moderated the relationship between risk perception and risky driving behavior. Significant differences in risky driving behavior were found between commercial and private drivers. The implications of the outcomes have been discussed.