Abstract

RUIZ PEREZ, José Ignacio et al. Social representations of traffic rules, aggressiveness, easiness perceived in driving, accidents, and traffic tickets involving drivers in Bogota, D. C.. Rev. Crim. [online]. 2014, vol.56, n.2, pp.291-307. ISSN 1794-3108.

The main objective in this work consisted of getting to know the social representations about traffic rules and their connection with self-reported aggressiveness, accident rates and fines for traffic offenses by drivers in Bogota. A case-based survey (Mamontoff, 2010) with graphic elements (Abric, 1993) was applied to a non-random sample of driving offenders or drivers undergoing their driving license renewal process. As results, four classes of drivers were identified: Two groups more likely to: abuse alcohol and exceed speed limits (1st class), pass through red or yellow lights and disregard other traffic signs (2nd class); another group that was more cautious about drinking alcohol before driving, but not with regard to exceeding speed limits (3rd class), and another group with a willingness to comply with all driving rules (4th class). A more lenient attitude towards drinking alcohol before or while driving was associated to attributing accidents to factors external to the driver, or with a higher record of fines or sanctions in the past, and having suffered more damages in road-traffic. Likewise, a more far-reaching aggressiveness was associated with an intended less prudent or cautious conduct.

Keywords : Traffic violations/driving contraventions; road traffic rules; aggressiveness; road accident rates; traffic fines/tickets.

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