Comparative insights into mobile road safety alert applications: Assessing user preferences and financial commitment among Greek and European highway users

Abstract

Transportation plays a central role in modern society, influencing both economic prosperity and quality of life. However, it also poses challenges, such as road safety, that require innovative solutions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the acceptance of mobile emergency notification applications as a road safety measure on Greek and European highways. Using a quantitative approach, an online questionnaire was distributed to 1002 Greek and foreign highway users. The study focused on identifying key factors influencing the effectiveness of these applications, with particular emphasis on users' willingness to pay for ad-free notifications. Results show that the most influential factors include the type of messages sent, willingness to pay for ad-free services, and preferred methods and frequency of receiving emergency notifications. These findings have implications for the design and implementation of more effective mobile alert systems for road safety.

Keywords

• Road safety
• Variable message signs
• Mobile alert applications
• Willingness to pay
• Quantitative research