Fast And Furios in the Oncoming Lane: Traffic Mentality & Mortality

• In Event: Crime Prevention Panel 2

Abstract

In Romania, the automobile transcends its function as a means of transportation, being perceived as a symbol of social status and an extension of personal identity. This has given rise to a genuine 'car cult', where personal worth is often associated with the performance of the vehicle owned. This mentality stands in stark contrast to the realities of the deficient road infrastructure, which becomes the stage for risky behaviors such as excessive speed, abrupt braking, or dangerous obstacle avoidance maneuvers. Such behaviors are glorified as proof of courage or skill rather than antisocial acts.
The lack of rigorous road education, the tolerance of unlicensed driving from a young age, and the declining standards in driver training, alongside the fact that the Romanian car market is dominated by second-hand vehicles – many of them in poor technical condition or illegally modified – are relevant explanatory factors for Romania's first-place ranking in Europe for road mortality.
The lack of accessible race tracks turns public roads into speed circuits, and parking lots and roundabouts into drift zones.
This context is worsened by neuropsychological factors, often ignored or untreated, and by the negative influences of a dysfunctional family environment. Additionally, chronic fatigue, caused by physical or mental overstrain, combined with a high consumption of energy drinks – often perceived as a social norm – amplifies impulsivity and fosters dangerous behavior in traffic.
All these elements – from the cultural status of the vehicle, to the poor infrastructure, to the shortcomings of the educational system – converge into a social landscape where traffic offenses and risky driving behaviors are admired and even encouraged. Tackling this phenomenon requires an integrated approach, covering education, infrastructure, legislation, and the mental health of the population.

Authors

• Teodora - Andreea Onita, Faculty of Law - University of Oradea

• Flaviu Ciopec, Law Faculty West University of Timisoara Romania