Research on Risky Driving Behavior of Young Truck Drivers: Improved Theory of Planned Behavior Based on Risk Perception Factor

In response to the issue of young truck drivers’ weaker perception of potential risks, which makes them more prone to engaging in risky driving behaviors, the direct influence of risk perception on behavior was innovatively considered. An improved theory of planned behavior (TPB) model was developed and a study on risky driving behavior among young truck drivers was conducted. Valid questionnaire data from 330 young truck drivers in China were collected, and the improved TPB model was validated and analyzed through structural equation modeling. The results indicate that the improved TPB model can effectively explain the risky driving behavior among young truck drivers. Specifically, attitudes toward behavior, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control have significant positive effects on behavioral intention, while behavioral intention and perceived behavioral control have significant positive effects on behavior. In addition, risk perception has a significant negative effect on behavioral intention and behavior. Furthermore, a comparison with the traditional TPB model reveals that the improved TPB model performs better in terms of fit and explanatory power. Fit indices CMIN/DF, RMSEA, and AGFI were optimized by 16%, 18%, and 1.5%, respectively, and there was a 5% increase in explanatory power for behavior variance, validating the rationality and effectiveness of the improved TPB model. This provides decision support for the development of intervention measures for risky driving behavior among young truck drivers in the future.