Drivers prove that time is money

DRIVERS are twice as likely to drive dangerously if they are paying for time spent on the road, according to research from Leeds University. A study using a driving simulator showed that drivers were more likely to jump red lights, speed and overtake illegally if they were being charged on a time basis for road use. Peter Bonsall of Leeds's Institute for Transport Studies, said:

"The results have potentially serious implications for proposals to introduce charges for road use. If the undoubted benefits of such policies - managing demand and generating revenue - are not to be offset by more road accidents, it will be necessary to use charging mechanisms not related to time on the road." The study is part of a larger research project funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.