Feeling of speed: A qualitative study of reasons for speed choices

Little knowledge exist regarding what drivers think and how they state their choice of driving speed. Is the choice governed by conscious appraisals, habits or unconscious processes? The objective of the study was to make drivers reflect around such questions. A qualitative method, focus groups, was chosen. Four groups were selected: 1) Five adolescents 18-20 years of age 2) Eight men 23-47 years 3) Seven women 23-42 years 4) Nine elderly drivers 63-83 years of age.The analysis of the focus groups shows a variety of reasons. The report is structured according to reasons linked to physical factors, interaction with other road users, to the driver and to the society in general, i.e. attitudes towards speed limits and reasons linked to the respect for the law.