A recently published study from two Michigan State University sociologists found that the telling factor for whether an increased gas tax would be supported by the public was how the justification for the increase was presented. Their suggestions for framing the reasons for an increase are based on research on “fear appeal.”
human behavior
Partnering improved highway design and behavior interventions for increased safety
After a spike in traffic deaths in the first half of 2015, USDOT and NHTSA have offered a response that fast tracks the development of safety technologies and strives to improve driver behaviors. However, it is silent on roadway design.
Instant rewards, penalties, and feedback are shown to change driver behavior
A new study shows that tiny financial losses can improve motorists’ compliance with speed limits. The study’s researchers found that the psychology of losing money, even just a few pennies, as well as the instant feedback of seeing the money trickling away, almost completely eliminated speeding. Hybrid drivers often experience the same instant feedback by watching their dashboard mileage monitor in real time. As drivers become more comfortable with continuous monitoring of vehicle operations and instant feedback on their own behavior, both safety and efficiency can be expected to improve.
San Francisco drivers still park on congested blocks despite variable pricing
Even though parking can be significantly cheaper on adjacent blocks, people keep parking in the same spots, regardless of cost. That’s the conclusion after the most recent adjustment in an innovative program to even out parking …