Evaluating the Influence of Positive Affect, Risk Perception, and Personal Characteristics on the Risk-Taking Riding Behaviors of Motorcyclists

Abstract

This study on Malaysian motorcyclists was carried out due to the high fatality rate of motorcycle traffic accidents. A survey was conducted to assess demographic information, risky behavior engagement, positive affect, and risk perception among Malaysian motorcyclists. The results were analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling to assess the survey’s reliability and validity. Consequently, a statistical model was created based on the hypothesis model where the relationship among each latent construct was evaluated, including risk perception, positive affect, risky behavior, and mediator personal characteristics. The model revealed that positive affect had the strongest positive relationship with the construct of risky behavior (t-value of 15.517), while the personal characteristics of the rider had a significant direct effect on risky behavior, with a t-value of 2.175. In addition, an indirect effect of personal characteristics on risky behavior through positive affect was also found to be significant (t-value = 3.885). These results concur with most studies conducted on motorist driving behavior showing that motorcyclist risky behavior engagement can potentially be reduced from the perspective of encouragement and empowerment instead of enforcement and deterrence. This study is important in identifying practical measures that can integrate road safety into a broader strategy for sustainable transportation.

Keywords

• motorcyclist
• risky riding behavior
• risk perception
• positive affect
• personal characteristics
• sustainable transportation