Personality traits and substance use as predictors of reckless driving among commercial tricyclists in Biu, Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

The rate of reckless driving among commercial transport workers in Nigeria is gradually assuming a frightening proportion. However, despite its associated psychosocial and economic consequences, there is still paucity of research, especially among tricyclists, which paradoxically forms a significant mode of intra city transportation in most parts of northern Nigeria. This study examined personality traits and substance use as predictors of reckless driving among commercial tricyclists in Biu, Borno state. To achieve its objectives, 150 eligible commercial tricyclists conveniently sampled in a cross sectional survey were assessed with standardized instruments measuring big five personality traits, drug use and reckless driving at Kuros and Mandabula parks within Biu. Result did not indicate significant influence of personality traits on reckless driving. However, participants’ reported substance use emerged as a significant risk factor to reckless driving. These findings implicate drug use as a major risk factor to the increasing rate of reckless driving in Biu and thus recommend stakeholder’s efforts on regular drug check and treatment as a way to manage intra town reckless driving and its potential consequences in Biu and beyond.