Role of Traffic and Land -use on Driver's Behavior

Abstract

Driving can be seen as a purposeful action aimed at reaching a destination. The primary goals of driving include arriving on time and ensuring safety. When these goals are hindered, emotions may arise, potentially influencing behavioral adjustments. Any obstruction to achieving these goals tends to elicit negative effects, whereas facilitating goal-directed behavior typically fosters positive outcomes. Bhopal was chosen due to its diverse urban layout, encompassing a mix of planned and unplanned city forms, which significantly influence traffic dynamics and driver conduct. By analyzing variables such as age, gender, marital status, education, and driving experience, researchers uncovered distinct patterns in driver behavior across different urban zones. Notably, areas transitioning between planned and unplanned development exhibit higher rates of risky, aggressive, and negligent driving behaviors. Conversely, drivers in fully planned areas tend to demonstrate increased adherence to traffic rules, albeit with occasional tendencies towards violations. The research employed a multifaceted approach combining surveys and statistical analysis to comprehensively assess driver behavior in Bhopal city. Surveys provided insights into demographic factors influencing driving habits, such as age, gender, marital status, education, and driving experience. Statistical analysis was utilized to identify significant correlations, such as between gender and marital status with critical driving behaviors and driving experience with aggressive driving tendencies. These findings underscore the complexity of driver behavior as influenced by both personal characteristics and environmental factors, necessitating nuanced strategies for enhancing road safety. The research underscores the critical need for targeted interventions aimed at mitigating hazardous driving practices and promoting safer behaviors among Bhopal's motorists. By understanding the intricate relationship between urban form, demographic attributes, and driving conduct, policymakers can tailor interventions that address specific risk factors prevalent in different city sectors. Implementing effective traffic management strategies, educational campaigns, and enforcement measures emerges as imperative to curbing traffic incidents and fostering a safer driving culture citywide. Ultimately, the research advocates for a holistic approach to road safety that integrates urban planning considerations with behavioral insights to achieve lasting improvements in traffic management and public safety outcomes.