University of Arizona Doctoral Student Ashley R. Coles’ research has found that while flooded roads are clearly marked with signs to indicate risk, drivers continue to cross and drive on them. Even the State’s ―Stupid Motorist Law‖ that fines drivers who cross flood barricades, is not a sufficient deterrent to stop risky behavior. Coles wanted to understand why people engaged in this behavior despite warning signs.
Her research found that while popular opinion was that drivers were irrational when choosing to drive on flooded roads, in fact they use a rational decision making process. Coles found that drivers were aware of and had a high degree of trust in flood warning signs, but were unclear if signs represented ―current‖ risk. Coles’ research also found that drivers relied on a variety of information sources to determine current risk including warning signs, actions of other drivers, perception of worsening weather conditions, presence of passengers in the vehicle, available alternate routes, and advice of friends or family.
Coles' research is significant in that it may help floodplain managers and emergency management personnel to better understand factors that contribute to risky behavior and decision making. Knowing what information sources influence actions, how can we as floodplain managers improve outreach and better communicate with citizens about risk?
Click here for more information about Ashley R. Coles research findings reported in the UA News, Flooded Washes: To Cross or Not to Cross?
Originally published in ASFPM Chapter Newsletter.
About Our Association
- Nebraska Floodplain and Stormwater Managers Association
- The Nebraska Floodplain and Stormwater Managers Association (NeFSMA) is an active organization of over 100 members representing over 50 organizations. NeFSMA pursues multiple purposes including: 1.)promote public awareness of floodplain and stormwater management; 2.) promote the professional status of floodplain and stormwater management and secure all benefits resulting there from; 3.) promote cooperation and information exchange between individuals and entities concerned with floodplain and stormwater management; 4.) keep individuals concerned with floodplain and stormwater management well informed through educational and professional seminars and to provide a method for dissemination of information, both general and technical; 5.) inform and educate concerned individuals of pending floodplain or stormwater legislation, funding and other related management matters. Please browse our website to learn more about NeFSMA at www.nefsma.net. If you are interested in joining, either contact one of the board members or complete the membership form.
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