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1 year ago
Study finds many motorists don't see need to heed speed limits
Friday, 07 November 2008
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http://www.nerve.in/news:253500179543
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channel:
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Using survey data, Mannering applied a series of mathematical equations in a model to estimate the probabilities of speed and safety viewpoints for drivers in various categories.
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By
Purdue University
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Research suggests U.S. motorists are growing increasingly cynical about the relevance of speed limits, and a new study indicates many motorists are more likely to think they can drive safely while speeding as long as they won't get caught.
So the faster you think you can go before getting a ticket, the more likely you are to think safety's not compromised at higher speeds, said Fred Mannering, a professor of civil engineering at Purdue University.
Mannering used a series of mathematical equations in multinomial logit models to calculate probabilities based on data from a survey of 988 motorists in Tippecanoe County, Ind., where Purdue is located.
Findings generally agree with other data taken in recent years.
For whatever reason, respect for speed limits seems to have deteriorated, Mannering said. A 2002 survey indicated two-thirds of all drivers reported they exceeded the posted speed limit, and roughly one-third reported driving 10 mph faster than most other vehicles. These figures are even more disturbing when you consider that they're self-reported and likely to be understating the degree of speeding problems.
The Indiana survey participants were asked: At what point do you feel speeding becomes a threat to the personal safety of you and your family? The motorists were given three choices: 5 mph, 10 mph or 20 mph over the speed limit.
The survey was taken before and after a 2004 media campaign launched in the county stressing the dangers of speeding that included radio and newspaper messages.
Using survey data, Mannering applied a series of mathematical equations in a model to estimate the probabilities of speed and safety viewpoints for drivers in various categories.
Findings are detailed in a research paper appearing in the journal
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