Prediction of taxi drivers' safe-driving behaviors based on the theory of planned behavior: The role of habit.

BACKGROUND

Safe-driving behaviors of taxi drivers are fundamental to health. The present research aimed to predict the taxi drivers' safe-driving behaviors based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and habit.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present research is of a descriptive/analytical cross-sectional type conducted on 184 taxi drivers in Bandar Abbas who were selected through a multiple-stratified sampling method. Data collection instrument was a questionnaire comprised of two sections (demographic information and the constructs of TPB.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

The data were later on analyzed via SPSS ver 19 and Pearson's correlation coefficient as well as multiple regressions.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants was 45.1 (standard deviation [SD = 11.1) years, and they had an average experience of taxi driving for 10.3 years (SD = 7.5). Subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and habits were the predictors of one's intention of driving safely ( = 0.30, = 18.7, < 0.001). Moreover, attitude, perceived behavioral control, and habits were found to be the predictors of safe-driving behaviors ( = 0.19, = 8.1, < 0.001). Finally, habits showed to be a stronger predictor of safe-driving behaviors than attitude and perceived behavioral control.

CONCLUSION

Consideration of individuals' behavioral habits and correction of unsafe habits, focus on the adverse effects of unsafe-driving behaviors, goal setting to change incorrect driving habits, attention to influential groups in altering unsafe-driving behaviors, and careful monitoring of abiding by the rules are suggested to promote safe-driving behaviors.