Is there a connection between car accidents, near accidents, and type A drivers?

Behav Med. 1998 Fall;24(3):99-106. doi: 10.1080/08964289809596387.

Abstract

The authors examined Type A behavior pattern, which has been investigated primarily as a risk factor for coronary heart disease, as a risk factor for car accidents and near accidents. Type A behavior pattern, which is characterized by excessive impatience, competitiveness, hostility, and time pressure, was assessed by means of the Videotaped Structured Interview. One hundred thirty-five Swedish car drivers (66 men and 69 women) were studied: 78 Type A and 58 Type B (that is, not having, Type A behavior). Time pressure was significantly associated with near accidents when age, sex, annual mileage, and urban driving were controlled in a multivariate model.

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Traffic / psychology*
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Personality Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Sweden
  • Time Perception
  • Type A Personality*