Relationship between driving-violation behaviours and risk perception in motorcycle accidents

Objective/Background Riding motorcycles is a popular means of community mobility in many Asian and developing countries. However, the potential harm associated with accidents is greater for motorcyclists and their passengers than for other vehicle users. The primary aims of this study were to explore the relationship between driving-violation behaviours and perceptions of the risk associated with potential accident causes, and to assess the contribution of these factors to active involvement in accidents among Chinese motorcyclists. Methods A total of 621 Chinese motorcyclists were recruited. All were asked to fill in a specially developed questionnaire to assess their driving-violation behaviours and perceptions of potential causes of motorcycle accidents. Results A relationship was identified between driving-violation behaviours and risk perceptions. Furthermore, both were significant predictors of involvement in motorcycle accidents. The motorcyclists involved in accidents demonstrated more aggressive and ordinary driving-violation behaviours. In addition, these motorcyclists exhibited lower perceptions of risk from both driving and environmental factors. Instead, these motorcyclists were more likely to identify risk in terms of belief-related causes. Conclusion This study could assist occupational-therapy practitioners involved in driving rehabilitation and training to identify strategies to deal with drivers' violation behaviours and risk perception. It could also provide evidence-based recommendations for drivers' education, driving-safety campaigns, or even licensing policies.