The theory of planned behavior and speeding: perspectives from a driving simulator study

• We verified the Theory of Planned Behavior –Speeding association pattern. • Attitudes, control and self-efficacy were associated with the intention to speed. • Intention mediated the effects of attitudes, control and self-efficacy on speeding. • Intention was the sole direct predictor of speeding in this driving simulator setting. The goal of this study was to verify the predictive potential of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in explaining speeding behavior using a driving simulator. Participants (N = 189 drivers) completed self-report measures assessing intentions, attitudes, perceived social norms, perceived behavioral control and self-efficacy. Speeding was objectively measured using two indicators from a driving simulator (instances of exceeding speed limits − on straight roads, and while turning at junctions). Mediation analyses were conducted to determine if intention mediated the relationship between TPB variables and speeding behavior. Results show that attitudes, control and self-efficacy were associated with the intention to speed. Intention mediated the effects of attitudes, control and self-efficacy on speeding, while norms had no significant effect. Intention was also the only direct predictor of speeding behavior. Emerging practical implications emphasize the need to address TPB components in the development of interventions to reduce risky driving. Overall, our results highlight the importance of intention as a mediator in the relation between TPB constructs and speeding behavior.