From on High? A Systems Analysis of the Contributory Factors that Lead to the Fatal Five Behaviours

Although much is known regarding driver-related crash contributory factors, less is known regarding the crash contributory factors that reside outside of the driver, vehicle and road infrastructure. This article presents the findings from a study in which a systems thinking framework was used to collect and analyse data on the system-wide contributory factors underpinning the so called “fatal five” crash-related driver behaviours: drug and drink driving, distraction and inattention, failure to wear a seat belt, speeding, and fatigue. The study included a survey on drivers’ perceptions of causes of the each behaviour and a workshop with road safety experts. The data was analysed and mapped onto a systems model of the Queensland road transport system. In addition to well-known driver-centric contributory factors, factors related to road safety strategy and policy, design standards, road rules and regulations, and societal issues generally were identified.