SUV driving “masculinizes” risk behavior in females: a public health challenge

Abstract

SummaryInvolvement of sport utility vehicles (SUV) in accidents especially with children is of increasing importance. Studies have indicated a more risky behavior in SUV drivers. We conducted an observational study focusing on traffic violations, car type, and the gender of the driver in Vienna. The study was conducted on five weekdays at the beginning of school term. Three busy intersections were selected.Drivers of 43,168 normal cars and 5653 SUVs were counted at the intersections during the observation period. In total 13.8% drivers were unbelted, 3.1% were using a handheld mobile phone, and 2.5% violated traffic lights. These frequencies were significantly higher in SUV drivers than in normal passenger car drivers. This “SUV effect” also occurred in women for all violations, although male drivers violated traffic laws more often than female drivers. However, for driving unbelted the difference between males and females was smaller in SUV drivers.

Determining Factors of Consumers’ Choice of Sport Utility Vehicles in an Isolated Energy System: How Can We Contribute to the Decarbonization of the Economy?

“…In terms of road safety, the increased ground clearance (ride height) results in an increased risk of rollover compared to smaller vehicles [17,18]. In addition, SUV drivers have a false perception of increased safety and are therefore more prone to accidents and non-compliance with road rules [19,20]. Although SUV occupants have less severe accidents [20], they tend to have worse consequences for third parties [21].…”