Highlights Applications that display enforcement locations are widespread. Such applications can undermine enforcement. The applications may also make drivers more aware of enforcement. 73 applications that display enforcement locations were identified. Those that use the applications were more willing to speed.

    Abstract Introduction: One of the primary countermeasures in place to prevent road rule violations is legal enforcement, yet there are numerous applications that can undermine such efforts by notifying drivers of enforcement locations. However, the capabilities of these applications and how they can impact offending behavior is currently unknown. Method: Two studies were conducted to understand which of these applications are being used by drivers and how these applications are impacting road rule violations. Study 1 consisted of a content analysis that involved searching the Google Play Store and Apple iTunes Store for applications that could be used to avoid road rule violations using pre-determined keywords. Meanwhile, Study 2 consisted of 468 licensed Australian drivers (54.5% males) over the age of 17 years (M age = 35 years) who completed a survey. Results: A total of 73 applications were identified for Study 1, with most of the applications displaying speed camera locations. It was found that applications that notify drivers of traffic enforcement locations are widely prevalent, can be used on a variety of interfaces and include numerous additional features. Study 2 found that those who use the applications were more willing to speed than those who do not use the applications, while there was no difference in phone use while driving between those who do and do not use the applications. Practical Applications: The findings have important implications for stakeholders, policy, and future research. For example, it is suggested that specific functions of these applications need to be regulated to reduce road rule violations and crash risk. Meanwhile, enforcement initiatives need to evolve at a faster rate to keep up to date with the changing technology that can undermine them.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Road rule enforcement and where to find it: An investigation of applications used to avoid detection when violating traffic rules



    Published in:

    Publication date :

    2023-08-29


    Size :

    15 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English







    Performance improvement in road traffic law enforcement

    Matchett, M. R. / Van der Walt, J. P. / Van Tonder, H. P. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1993


    Detection, Tutoring and Enforcement of Traffic Rules Violations - The DETER Project

    Brookhuis, K. A. / IEEE / IEE | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1993