Advisers

Kathleen Ann Jabien - Bagon, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

The study aimed to provide an understanding of the factors affecting road safety and the significant impact of driver behavior on vehicular accidents along Camarin Road, Caloocan City. The research investigates the specific driving conduct and patterns that lead to the occurrence and severity of accidents in this high-traffic urban area. The conceptual framework is rooted in Situational Action Theory, which posits that a person’s propensity to commit an act increases when their personal inclinations coincide with a particular environmental setting, such as narrow lanes or poor lighting. A quantitative descriptive research design was used to systematically examine the variables of interest. Data were gathered through a validated, researcher-made survey questionnaire administered to sixty (60) purposively selected participants. To ensure a multi-dimensional perspective, the sample was equally divided into three groups: 20 drivers, 20 commuters, and 20 traffic enforcers regularly exposed to Camarin Road. Statistical analysis included frequency distribution, percentage, weighted mean, and t-tests to evaluate data and identify significant correlations. Results revealed that while respondents generally understand traffic signs and license restrictions, significant behavioral gaps persist in practice. The statistical analysis led to the rejection of the null hypothesis, indicating that different groups perceive the severity of behavioral issues differently. Notably, the "human factor"—characterized by reckless driving, overspeeding, and a lack of discipline—was identified as the leading cause of accidents. However, 96.66% of respondents also identified poor road conditions, such as potholes and inadequate lighting, as critical accident triggers. The study determines that accidents that occur on Camarin Road happen because people behave in specific ways, and the road lacks proper safety measures. The research indicates that drivers only follow traffic rules when they believe enforcement of those rules will be applied consistently throughout the day. The study proposes a comprehensive solution that combines road infrastructure improvements with No-Contact Apprehension Systems (NCAP) and required defensive driving training programs.

Keywords

road safety, Traffic Enforcement, Driver, driver behavior, road conditions, vehicular accidents, camarin road, pedestrian, human factor, traffic sign