An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior to Predict the Protective Behaviors from Urban Traffic Accidents

Introduction: Iran has the highest annual fatality rate in traffic accidents among countries in the world.  This study is designed to predict the protective behaviors of intra-urban traffic accidents based on the constructs of the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Methods: This descriptive-analytic study was conducted in 2022 in Yazd city on 140 people with driver's license using stratified random sampling method. Data were collected through a questionnaire with three parts including demographic variables, evaluation of the TPB constructs, and assessment of socio-cultural factors of driving behaviors.  Data analysis was performed by SPSS version 26 using one-sample t-test, Chi-square, and univariate linear regression tests. Results: In this study, the mean age of subjects was 39/1 with a standard deviation of 11. Based on the results of the study, 33% of the variance related to protective driving behavior could be predicted with the variables included in the model. The constructs of behavioral intention (β=0/414, p<0/0001) and perceived behavioral control (β= 0/246 p= 0/003) were the determinants of protective behaviors in Yazd city drivers. Conclusion: In the present study, the perceived behavioral control was the strongest predictor of protective behavioral intention in intra-urban driving. Sometimes, performing a behavior necessitates the acquisition of skills that a person lacks, and increasing perceived behavioral control can lead to improved driving skills. Therefore, TPB offers an effective theoretical framework for increasing the efficacy of traffic accident prevention initiatives.