Hoon driving behaviour: Prevalence, associated characteristics and crashes

The use of vehicles in an antisocial, 'loutish' and dangerous manner constitutes the phenomenon of hooning, a risky behaviour with heightened concern for Australian roads (Folkman, 2005; Jarred, 2002). The concern has been highlighted by extensive media attention particularly from local newspapers within Australian states and territories (see 'Hoons need for speed and danger', 2006; Ferguson, 2006; 'Hoons go for a joyride', 2006). There has also been general observations made by police and traffic groups as to the related components of hooning (e.g. Folkman, 2005; Jarred, 2002) although the amount of accessible published documents is minimal. Thus, hooning may lead to on road accidents and warrants research to identify its related factors.