This paper was presented as a poster at THE BRITISH PSYCHOLOGICAL SOCIETY DIVISION OF FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY 2006 CONFERENCE at the University of Central Lancashire, Foster Building, Preston.

This study investigated the effect anxiety had on road traffic accidents (RTAs). Results indicated that anxiety worked by reducing sensation seeking behavior (SSB) and RTAs. It is believed that anxiety works on SSB by triggering a fear of the prospective negative outcome of the motorist’s actions. This ‘backing off’ from taking chances (e.g. excessive speed and risky maneuvers), places the motorist in a safer situation thereby reducing likelihood of collision.

Simultaneously, anxiety increases cognitive slips & lapses (CSL). Being distracting, it confuses and restricts awareness, preventing concentration, thus increasing the likelihood of RTAs. 

  A model was constructed demonstrating the non-linear dynamics of the paradigm. This multidimensional manifold suggests anxiety in the driving situation operates along a horizontal but flexible plane comprised of two vertical factors, SSB and CSL, and the independent variable RTAs ‘running’ through the construct.

  The implications of this model are discussed with the aim of reducing aberrant driving behavior.

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