Speeding in relation to perceptions of risk, utility and driving style by British company car drivers

Results are presented of a questionnaire survey of speed-related risk-taking performed on 572 British company car drivers. Reported risk-taking was examined in relation to risk and utility perceptions as well as perceived control and driver self-perceptions. The data revealed that over half the sample reported often exceeding the motorway speed limit by at least 10 mph (16 km/h). It was found that drivers who more frequently exceeded the speed limit on motorways were less likely to view speeding as an important risk factor and were much more likely to view being on time for appointments as desirable. They were also likely to view themselves as less aware, less sociable and more confident. The importance of the perceived utility of arriving at appointments on time, in relation to speeding over the legal limit, suggests that some organizational measures to reduce perceived time pressure within company vehicle drivers could be beneficial.