SIRA awards $1 million to fund research into young driver behaviour to help make roads safer
Wednesday 17 April 2024
SIRA has awarded $1 million to 2 research partners, the University of Melbourne and Suncorp (AAMI). They were chosen to undertake different innovative research projects that will seek to improve young driver behaviour and safety on the road.
The research will focus on young drivers because drivers under the age of 25 are up to four-and-a-half times more likely to be involved in a motor crash and up to 5 times more likely to be involved in a motor crash resulting in death or serious injury.
The primary approach of the research funding is to influence and improve young driver behaviour using technology, making NSW roads safer and CTP Green Slip premiums more affordable for road users.
The University of Melbourne will conduct an experimental test using Urban Analytica’s (UA) in-vehicle telematics and smart phone apps. The UA smartphone app will provide personalised safety feedback to drivers in real-time after each journey. Participants will also receive financial incentives via the app to encourage safe driving and emission reduction.
AAMI will use their smartphone app, financial incentives, and nudge theory as part of their research.
The results of the research projects will be delivered within 24 months and will give SIRA a better understanding of what incentives are most effective for modifying young driver behaviour.
In the longer term, the research outcomes of these 2 projects will aim to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes involving young drivers and minimise NSW's compulsory third party scheme costs.