UNIQUE ACCIDENT TREND OF RENTAL CARS

A high accident trend of rental cars is observed. The size of the problem attracted the attention of researchers, officials, and legislators. The goal of this study is to evaluate the problem and to identify possible causes. A questionnaire survey was conducted to identify potential causes. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) was used to decide significant causes. Study analyses include comparison of accident rates before and after implementation of modifications to regulations controlling rental cars. Analyses indicate that the problem is correlated to behavioral trends. The study reveals that the high accident rate of rental cars is mainly attributed to a low level of understanding and adherence to traffic regulations. The low level of adherence is mainly associated with inadequate driving experience and the young age of rental-car drivers. Findings of this study are applicable in many other countries, especially in ones with drivers of similar behavioral characteristics.