Ali Tavakoli Kashani; Hamzeh Mansouri Kargar; Sajjad Sadeghi
Volume 25, Issue 12 , 2023
Abstract
Background: The increasing frequency of traffic accidents within public transportation systems leads to economic and public health challenges. It is essential to investigate predictive factors for high-risk driving behaviors, encompassing physical, psychological, personality, and health-related aspects.
Objectives: ...
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Background: The increasing frequency of traffic accidents within public transportation systems leads to economic and public health challenges. It is essential to investigate predictive factors for high-risk driving behaviors, encompassing physical, psychological, personality, and health-related aspects.
Objectives: The present study examines the correlation between a driver's "Mizaj" (temperament) and their driving behavior, as well as the associated risk of accidents. Additionally, the study evaluates the link between smoking habits and drivers' behavior.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted in Tehran, Iran, a total of 253 bus drivers participated. They were evaluated using a temperament questionnaire, the Manchester Driving Behavior Questionnaire, data on smoking habits, driving experience, and the number of accidents over the past three years. Correlations among temperament, smoking habits, driving behavior factors, and accident frequencies were determined by Pearson's correlation coefficients.
Results: Among the study participants, 97 reported one or more traffic accidents while driving. Statistically significant associations were found between road accidents and factors such as driving experience, smoking, type of temperament, and driving behavior. It is noteworthy that drivers with a hot temperament had a higher incidence of accidents compared to those with cold or moderate temperaments (P-value < 0.05). Moreover, smokers reported significantly more accidents (P-value < 0.01) and higher scores for violations and errors in driving behavior (P-value < 0.01). In addition, drivers with a first-grade driver's license and more than 15 years of experience reported a significantly lower number of accidents (P-value < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results of the present research indicate a clear association between temperament and driving behavior. Bus drivers with a hot temperament were more prone to accidents, violations, and driving errors compared to those with cold or moderate temperaments. Furthermore, drivers with a dry temperament faced a higher risk of accidents than those with a wet temperament.
