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The Behaviors and Habits of Young Drivers Living in Small Urban Cities

Author

Listed:
  • Alexander M. Crizzle

    (School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada)

  • Mackenzie L. McKeown

    (School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada)

  • Ryan Toxopeus

    (School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada)

Abstract

While studies have typically examined the driving habits of young drivers living in large urban cities, few have examined the habits of young drivers living in smaller cities with large rural surrounding areas. Three surveys were disseminated to 193 young drivers, 65 police officers, and 62 driving instructors to examine the driving habits and challenging driving situations young drivers experience. Almost a fifth (18.1%) reported consuming alcohol prior to driving; alcohol consumption prior to driving was significantly associated with eating food/drinking beverages while driving, cellphone use, and speeding. The most challenging situations young drivers reported were night driving, encountering wild animals on the road, and driving in extreme weather conditions (e.g., ice, snow). Driving instructors reported that young drivers had challenges with lane positioning, speed control, and navigating traffic signs and signals. Additionally, police officers reported issuing tickets to young drivers primarily for failure to stop, distracted driving, impaired driving, and speeding. Young drivers living in smaller cities and rural communities have unique challenges, including interactions with wildlife, driving on gravel roads, and driving in poor weather and road conditions (e.g., ice, snow). Opportunities for young drivers to be exposed to these scenarios during driver training are critical for increasing awareness of these conditions and reducing crash risk.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexander M. Crizzle & Mackenzie L. McKeown & Ryan Toxopeus, 2025. "The Behaviors and Habits of Young Drivers Living in Small Urban Cities," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(2), pages 1-17, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:2:p:165-:d:1577599
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Ivers, R. & Senserrick, T. & Boufous, S. & Stevenson, M. & Chen, H.-Y. & Woodward, M. & Norton, R., 2009. "Novice drivers' risky driving behavior, risk perception, and crash risk: Findings from the DRIVE study," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 99(9), pages 1638-1644.
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