a set of psychological and behavioral strategies used by drivers or pedestrians to reduce potential dangers on the road, prevent accidents and ensure their own safety and the safety of others. This is achieved through proactive actions and taking precautions based on the prediction of dangerous situations. Preventive behavior is one of the most important concepts in the behavioral psychology of traffic, as it combines knowledge of the rules of the road, spatio-temporal orientation, attention, control of emotions and the ability to make effective decisions in changing circumstances.
Elements of preventive behavior:
1) Hazard prediction – The ability to anticipate the actions of other drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, and to assess the likelihood of dangerous situations before they occur.
2) Intense and sustained attention – Maintaining vigilance for all elements of the road environment, including traffic lights, vehicle traffic, obstacles and pedestrians.
3) Distance and Speed Estimation – The ability to calculate the distance required to stop safely, estimate the appropriate speed for each situation, and adjust the vehicle according to the surrounding conditions.
4) Emotional Control – Control anger, tension, and psychological pressure to avoid aggressive or reckless behavior while driving.
5) Compliance with traffic rules – Compliance with speed limits, right of way, traffic lights, and maintaining a safe distance between vehicles.
6) Adaptation to different circumstances – Adjusting driving behaviour according to weather factors, road conditions, traffic jams and the behaviour of other drivers.