Predictors of speeding behavior among a sample of Iranian commercial automobile drivers: an application of the theory of planned behavior

Abstract

Objective: Speeding has been reported as one of the most important public health issues worldwide. Using the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study examined the self-reported behavior of driving within posted speed limits for a sample of commercial automobile drivers.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, all commercial automobile drivers who were literate and who transported people to and from Bandar Abbas and other cities in August 2010 were likely to be included in the study. A self-administered questionnaire including demographic characteristics and a questionnaire based on TPB constructs were used to collect data. Multiple regression analyses were used to predict factors of driving within speed limits at a level of p < .05.

Results: In all, 246 eligible drivers with a mean age of 32.2 years (SD = 6.7) were studied. The mean years of automobile driving was 8.7 (SD = 5.0). Multiple regression analysis revealed that subjective norms and perceived behavioral control could predict the intention to drive within speed limits (R(2)= 0.25, F = 27.2, p < .001). Furthermore, behavioral intention and perceived behavioral control predicted driving within speed limits (R(2)= 0.41, F = 85.1, p < .001).

Conclusion: This study concluded that commercial automobile drivers in Bandar Abbas, Iran, are most in need of appropriate interventions based on improving their subjective norms and behavioral control.