Testing the Effects of Real-Time Smartphone Alerts and Financial Incentives in Moderating Young Driver Speeding.

Abstract

The number of road collision deaths for those under the age of 25 has reached a global crisis point. A recent approach to improving outcomes has been the introduction of Phone App’ Driver Monitors (PADMs). These smartphone apps provide real-time, in-vehicle feedback and summary reports. They also enable the generation of personal, subsidised insurance rates. This study is the first to examine the impact of PADM use on young driver behaviour (in this case, speeding violations and mean speed). 125 licensed, insured, smartphone-using drivers (aged 18-24) were recruited. All participants completed an initial demographics questionnaire, simulated 20km drive and were then split into groups. Group 1 (control) completed the 20km drive as before, while Group 2 (monitoring) were informed their driving would also be monitored. Group 3 (monitoring + alerts) could also receive smartphone audio alerts for unsafe driving. Group 4 (monitoring + financial incentive) could earn up to €5 for safe driving while monitored. Group 5 (monitoring + alerts + financial incentive) could receive payment and alerts for unsafe driving. Following a data collection period of three months, the time I and II simulator data was processed and within-between ANOVAs with interactions conducted. The results identify the optimal medium for successfully moderating young driver speeding, and the potential roles of PADM feedback and financial incentives in improving this risky health behaviour are discussed.