NCJ Number
126761
Date Published
Unknown
Length
23 pages
Annotation
Statistical information indicates that some individuals, due to personal characteristics, are more prone to involvement in motor vehicle accidents than others. This study describes accident proneness and explores the relationship between accident proneness and criminal deviance, using the same correlates, age structures, and relatively stable manifestations.
Abstract
The clinical approach to explaining accident proneness has led to several studies concluding that accident prone drivers are, in general, emotionally less mature and responsible, more antisocial, had more involvement with criminal justice and social service agencies, and had lower academic achievements than accident-free drivers. Most of the traditional correlates of criminality -- early dating, working, and smoking; less stable marital relations; and low skill occupations -- have also been associated with accident proneness. The factor common to accidents, crime, and social deviance appears to be a high willingness to engage in risky behaviors with little regard for long-term consequences. The relationship between car accidents and crime is strengthened by the similar age curves displayed for each phenomenon, where involvement peaks in the late teens and declines afterward. Tests to predict accident potential have met with success rates around 80 percent, however public acceptance of such tests to determine driver's license eligibility would require even greater accuracy. 4 figures, 6 notes, and 52 references