The link between dangerous driving and other criminal behaviour: a scoping review
ISSN: 1757-8043
Article publication date: 4 May 2022
Issue publication date: 6 May 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the link between dangerous driving and other criminal behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) five-step process for scoping reviews to identify, summarise and classify identified literature was used. Within the 30-year timeframe (1990–2019), 12 studies met the inclusion criteria.
Findings
This review indicates that individuals who commit certain driving offences are more likely to also have a general criminal history. In particular, driving under the influence, driving unlicensed and high-range speeding offences were associated with other forms of criminal behaviour. Seven of the studies mentioned common criminological theories; however, they were not integrated well in the analysis. No studies used explanatory psychosocial theories that investigate social and contextual factors.
Research limitations/implications
Future research in this area would benefit from exploring individual and social influences that contribute to criminal behaviour in both contexts.
Practical implications
There is the potential to develop an information-led policing approach to improve safety on the roads and reduce wider offending behaviour. However, it is critical that road policing officers continue to focus on ensuring the road system is as safe as possible for users.
Originality/value
Criminal behaviour on the roads is often seen as a separate from other types of offending. This paper explores if, and how, these two types of offending are linked.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The initial research report which this paper is based on was funded by the Queensland Police Service. The views expressed in this material are those of the authors and are not those of the Queensland Police Service. Responsibility for any errors of omission or commission remains with the authors. The Queensland Police Service expressly disclaims any liability for any damage resulting from the use of the material contained in this publication and will not be responsible for any loss, howsoever arising, from use or reliance on this material.
Citation
Bates, L., Alexander, M. and Webster, J. (2022), "The link between dangerous driving and other criminal behaviour: a scoping review", Safer Communities, Vol. 21 No. 2, pp. 137-156. https://doi.org/10.1108/SC-02-2022-0009
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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