Risky driving: the role of cognition in youth

Youth (aged 15 to 24 years), engage in risky driving more than any other age group. Previous research has established a link between cognition and fitness to drive for older drivers. The present study aims to explore these findings in a youth driver sample. 100 undergraduate students completed a cognitive test battery and drives on a simulator. Results revealed global cognitive functioning, executive function and visuospatial skills were related to risky driving behaviors. However due to being below the recommended 80% cut-off scores could not be developed. Future studies should examine cognitive factors in combination with personality and social factors to identify risky young drivers.