Intrinsic motivation and challenges of road safety volunteers: the interplay of educational role, coping strategies, resilience, and social impact

Road safety is a critical concern worldwide, impacting individuals, communities, and societies. As mobility increases, so does the risk of accidents and injuries on roads, emphasizing the need for preventive measures. Road safety volunteers contribute significantly to promoting and maintaining road safety, making it important to understand their motivations and resilience sources. This study aimed to uncover what drives their commitment and the factors influencing their experiences as volunteers, informing them about strategies to support and enhance their efforts. Interviews with 28 road safety volunteers revealed three key themes: the driving forces behind their engagement, including intrinsic motivation, a sense of purpose, and social connection; challenges and coping strategies, such as the need for training, resilience, and peer support; and multifaceted benefits, including positive community impact and enhanced social connectivity. These findings highlight the potential benefits of promoting education on safe driving practices and encouraging citizen involvement in reducing traffic violations and road accidents.