Structural equations model for assessing drivers’ risk perception in 5 driving simulator using driver psychological characteristics

Today, traffic accidents are one of the most important causes of death and personal and financial injuries worldwide. Among the influential factors in traffic accidents, the human factor is known as the most effective factor. The results of studies show that drivers' correct understanding of road hazards is one of the most important human factors. However, many studies have calculated and examined the drivers’ risk perception index. However, so far no comprehensive indicator of drivers’ risk perception has been developed, focusing on changing some behavioral and psychological characteristics of drivers at the same time. Therefore, in this study, with the aim of investigating the effect of some personal, behavioral and psychological characteristics of individuals on the level of perception of driving risk, a dimensionless index has been defined and calculated as an index of risk perception.

a combination of driving simulator and Flanker and Go-No Go computer tests were used in order to measure the time components of the desired index. Relationships between different variables and drivers' risk perception index were investigated using structural equation modeling by the method of partial least squares. Findings and

Based on the modeling results, were obtained the most important variables affecting the driver risk perception index, inhibitory control, direction recognition error, cognitive impulsivity, motor impulsivity, unplanned impulsivity, disregard for law and error and slip. Also, according to the studies, the effect of day and night variables, exercise status and the number of drivers' eyes on their perception of risk was statistically significant. The results of this study and similar studies can be a valuable tool for policy makers to improve traffic safety training and advertising programs. including the applicable programs that can be mentioned based on the results of this study in order to improve the drivers' risk perception index are psychological and behavioral trainings when receiving a license and extending it with priority on types of impulsivity and inhibitory control (for memory). In addition, it is possible to evaluate the behavior of drivers with the priority of legality and accuracy and training related to them for the initial receipt as well as the renewal of the license.