Citation

Haber H, Brenner R, Hulbert S. Highw. Res. Board bull. 1954; 91: 1-20.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1954, National Research Council (U.S.A.), Highway Research Board)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The authors deductively analyze highway accident focal points in terms of possible causative factors related to driver behavior. A concept is developed which the authors call 'psychology of trip geography.' this concept demonstrates that known psychological-behavior patterns can combine with the geography of the area over which a particular trip is planned to produce driver conditions conducive to accidents. Some of the recognized psychological behavior patterns considered are: The setting of aspiration levels, the rigid adherence to previously made plans, the general performance let-down incident to nearing completion of a task. Trip geography has reference not only to terrain and weather but also to the spatial layout of origins and destinations coupled with logical stopping places en route. The authors state their belief that the psychology of trip geography leads to prolonged driving and other unsafe driving practices which, in turn, increase the likelihood of an accident. In this context, seemingly unrelated accident- causing factors, such as reduced tactile sensitivity, highway hypnosis, and hypoxia (mountain sickness), are demonstrated to fit meaningfully into the framework provided by the new concept. Prolonged driving reduces the tactile sensitivity of the driver, the importance of tactile cues for the driving task is discussed. Arguments are advanced for the increased likelihood of hypnotic and hypoxic effects also resulting from prolonged driving. Pertinent literature in the fields of psychology, phsiology, aviation medicine, and highway safety is cited in support of the various hypotheses advanced by the authors.