Understanding the influence of environmental factors on driver speed: A structural equation modeling analysis

This study examined the influential roadway and contextual factors affecting drivers' speed selection through a comprehensive investigation employing structural equation modeling. Roadway and contextual variables including road curvature, presence of roundabouts, adverse weather conditions, and access were investigated using infrared speed sensors. The analysis revealed that specific roadway and contextual factors such as field variables, uphill and downhill road inclines, particular road curvature, and rainy weather significantly influence drivers' chosen speeds, while factors such as road access, nighttime conditions, larger road curvature, and signage exhibit a lesser impact. Notably, the study also found a positive correlation between road curvature radius and driver-chosen speed. The study's implications for transportation infrastructure planning and road safety interventions are underscored, with potential applications in road design, signage improvement, and weather-responsive measures to regulate driver speed choices in specific roadway and contextual conditions. • Specific environmental factors like road inclines, curvature, and weather significantly influence drivers’ speeds. • Road access, nighttime conditions, and signage have a lesser impact. • A positive correlation was found between road curvature radius and driver-chosen speed, highlighting the influence of road geometry on driver behavior. • Well-designed roundabouts and standard curves can effectively reduce speeds, suggesting implications for road design and safety. • The study recommends changes to signage, road curvature, and weather-responsive measures to regulate driver speeds.