The Impact of Risk Cognitive Bias on Female Drivers’ Risk-taking Driving Behavior

Throughout the years, an upward trend can be observed in the data regarding motor vehicle drivers in China, particularly in the number and proportion of female drivers. As an integral part of the road traffic system, female drivers possess unique physiological and psychological characteristics, driving patterns, and risk perception distinct from their male counterparts. Consequently, it becomes imperative to conduct specific research aimed at analyzing the driving behaviors of female drivers. Accordingly, this study centers on female drivers as the subject of investigation, developing a model that explores the decision-making process and inherent risks associated with their driving behavior. By examining the role of biases in risk perception, risk awareness, and attitudes towards driving safety, the study aims to shed light on the relationship between these factors and female drivers’ tendency to take risks while driving. Furthermore, a “Gender-based Driver Risk Perception Bias Scale” is designed alongside modifications to the existing “Driving Safety Attitude Scale,” “Driver Risk Perception Scale,” and “Risk-taking Driving Behavior Scale.” A survey was conducted among 274 vehicle drivers, and the data obtained were analyzed using AMOS to establish a structural equation model. The objective was to discern the underlying mechanisms through which risk perception biases impact risk-taking driving behavior specifically in female drivers. The findings of the study indicated the following: ① Significant disparities exist between male and female drivers concerning three aspects of risk cognitive bias: unfamiliarity with traffic information, overconfidence, and attribution bias; ② Risk cognitive bias exerts a positive influence on female drivers’ propensity for risk- traffic accidents of female drivers. Zhengtaking while driving; ③ Attitudes towards driving safety negatively influence risk-taking driving behavior; ④ Risk perception negatively impacts female drivers’ risk-taking behavior; ⑤ Risk perception partially mediates the relationship between risk perception bias and risky driving behavior. This study holds considerable implications for enhancing road traffic safety, improving the overall safety of the traffic system, and providing more tailored driving training for female drivers.