Title: Distracted driving effect on discharge rate at signalised intersections in Kuwait

Authors: Fahad Al-Rukaibi; Sharaf AlKheder; Saleh Al-Otaibi

Addresses: Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, 13060, Safat, Kuwait ' Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, 13060, Safat, Kuwait ' Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, 13060, Safat, Kuwait

Abstract: In this study, an attempt was performed to investigate the relation between distracted driving and the rate of discharge. A questionnaire was formed and randomly distributed to 400 persons. Also, observations were conducted to study drivers' behaviours at signalised intersections and obtain the frequencies of distracted driving. The results of the questionnaire and the observation were integrated to compare drivers' perceptions regarding distracted driving. The observation covered four pre-timed intersections with four approaches at Al-Salmiya area; one of the largest commercial areas in Kuwait. The results of the questionnaire and the observation form were analysed by SPSS. Discharge rate (Q) and the distraction percentage were also calculated. The results of the questionnaire showed that although there is a rising awareness of the risk of distractions' sources, most drivers still keep unacceptable performance level. The observation results showed that the discharge rate is inversely related to distraction percentage.

Keywords: driving; behaviour; distractions; discharge rate; signalised intersections; questionnaire; observations; perceptions; risk; Kuwait.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHFE.2018.096120

International Journal of Human Factors and Ergonomics, 2018 Vol.5 No.4, pp.304 - 322

Received: 25 Apr 2018
Accepted: 01 Aug 2018
Published online: 12 Nov 2018 *

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