The Role of Personality Qualities in Driving

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The main cause of traffic accidents is the human element. This implies that the most significant traffic safety factor is the driver's behaviour and their psychological qualifications for driving (Antušek, 1998; Havlík, 2005; Stránský, 2000; Štikar, Hoskovec & Štikarová, 2003). Generally, the driver's behaviour reflects their personality characteristics and the specific situation. The present article focuses on the personality variables which, according to recent research, are particularly associated with the driving of motor vehicles. The personality characteristics, of which the understanding is important for the development of a methodology for the selection of suitable candidates for the position of a driver, are described. The role of personality in a narrow sense, the specific qualities of a driver and a risky driver, the individual traits posing risk in terms of driving, and aggressiveness are also addressed.