The deaths of eight people on NSW roads across the Easter long weekend has again highlighted the importance of road safety research in helping to reduce this tragic toll.
The NSW Government has awarded $1 million to two research partners with their work to focus on young driver behaviour. The University of Melbourne and Suncorp (AAMI) will carry out different innovative research projects that will seek to improve young driver behaviour and safety on the road.
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.
AAMI will use their smartphone app, financial incentives and nudge theory as part of their research.
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.
The results of the research projects which will be delivered within 24 months will aim to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes involving young drivers and minimise NSW’s compulsory third party scheme costs.
Minister Chanthivong:
“The $1 million awarded by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to fund road safety research and programs that prevent or reduce injuries from motor crashes.
“The tragic deaths of eight people across the Easter weekend demonstrates the value of this sort of research in helping to reduce future road deaths and trauma.”
Acting SIRA Chief Executive, Dr Petrina Casey
“Drivers under the age of 25 are still up to four-and-a-half times more likely to be involved in a motor crash and up to five times more likely to be involved in a motor crash resulting in death or serious injury.
“The outcomes of this research will give us a better understanding of what incentives are most effective for modifying young driver behaviour,“ Dr Casey said.