The Impact of Extreme Temperature on Road Safety: A Study of Drivers’ Behavior and Accident Risks in Sargodha District, Pakistan

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between extreme temperatures and road traffic accidents in Sargodha district, Pakistan. Drawing from both quantitative data collected through a structured questionnaire and insights from previous research, the study examines how temperature fluctuations impact driver behavior, vehicle control, and road infrastructure. The sample consists of 60 drivers, aged 20-60, across seven tehsils, with data collected using a Likert-scale survey. Results show that extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, are perceived by 55% of drivers as a significant factor contributing to road accidents, with 60% of respondents adjusting their driving habits during such conditions. However, over half of the respondents disagreed with the notion that extreme temperatures impact vehicle control or handling. The study concludes that temperature fluctuations pose risks not only through their direct influence on driver behavior but also through their effects on road infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of adaptive driving strategies and road maintenance to mitigate accident risks.