What does 'risk perception' refer to in road safety?

Risk perception in road safety refers to how individuals assess and understand the dangers associated with specific driving behaviors or conditions. This involves a subjective judgment about the likelihood of a traffic incident occurring and the potential severity of its consequences. Understanding risk perception is crucial as it influences how drivers behave on the road. For instance, if a driver perceives a high risk associated with speeding, they are more likely to adhere to speed limits and drive cautiously.

The other choices do not fit the definition of risk perception. Traffic congestion relates to the volume of vehicles on the road and their impact on flow, which does not directly involve personal assessment of safety risks. The estimated cost of road repairs addresses financial aspects rather than perceptions of danger while driving. Similarly, speed limits are regulatory measures that dictate safe driving speeds but do not encapsulate how drivers feel or think about the risks of driving at those speeds. Hence, the focus on individual assessment in the correct answer makes it the most relevant choice regarding risk perception in road safety.