A script analysis of fatal crashes involving young drivers and implications for situational prevention

• In Event: WG-PLACE 5: Crime Scripting

Abstract

This presentation provides a script analysis of fatal crashes involving young drivers (16-29 years old) and then discusses potential prevention measures. This presentation also underscores the usefulness of interpersonal scripts for conceptualizing and understanding interactions between different actors. Data were extracted from crash reports and investigations conducted by Quebec Provincial Police (n = 77). A bottom-up approach was used to identify the script and sub-scripts relevant to specific settings. The fatal crash script involving young drivers consists of nine distinct stages: (1) Initial context; (2) Planning the trip; (3) Getting to location; (4) Reaching destination; (5) Changing location; (6) Going to the final destination; (7) Adopting reckless behaviors; (8) Crashing; and (9) the Aftermath (post-condition). Results indicate that friends play major roles in all stages leading to the crash; they often encourage substance use and they do not act as “guardians” when the driver decides to use his or her car to go to the final destination. Bars, restaurants and private places can be conceptualized as convergence settings where young drivers can drink with their friends and “attempt” to drive back home while few measures are implemented to preclude such actions. A matrix is provided to pinpoint measures likely to prevent fatal crashes involving young drivers.

Authors

• Étienne Blais, Université de Montréal

• Benoit Leclerc, Griffith University