Driving through a pandemic: A study of speeding and phone use while driving during COVID-19 restrictions
Verity Truelove, Natalie Watson-Brown, Emily Parker, James Freeman, Jeremy D. Davey
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions were implemented, however, data indicates road crash rates have not decreased proportionately to the decline in traffic density. This study explored how speeding and phone use while driving (road behaviors associated with a high crash risk) changed as a result of COVID-19 restrictions in Queensland. METHODS: = 427) was conducted between 24 June and 12 August 2020, when restrictions were easing. RESULTS: in phone use while driving after restrictions were eased when compared to engagement during restrictions, which may (in part) be due to the simultaneous introduction of roadside mobile phone detection cameras. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the importance of visible deterrence and provide a glimpse of possible consequences if there is a more sustained reduction in policing presence on roads.