NSW young drivers telematics trial – methodology, results and potential implications for road safety

The NSW Young Drivers Telematics Trial is a randomised control trial which aims to explore whether, and the extent to which, telematics devices reduce risky driving behaviours among young drivers. Participants are randomly allocated into control and treatment groups, with the latter receiving feedback about their driving behaviour via a LED dashboard display and a mobile phone app. Preliminary results show that the treatment group have lower rates of harsh braking, turning and acceleration compared with the control group. The treatment group also have a lower average speed and are spending a lower proportion of their driving time exceeding the posted speed limit. These preliminary results suggest that the use of telematics to provide feedback to drivers can have a positive effect on driving behaviours.