A Cross-Cultural Analysis regarding Fatal Car Accidents

This thesis analyzes the potential impact of cultural factors on fatality rates resulting from fatal traffic accidents. To identify a possible relation between elevated accident rates and cultural characteristics, the cultures are systematically classified using Hofstede’s cultural dimensions framework. The framework is used to analyze how cultural dimensions influence societal values and, in turn, behavioral patterns. The aim of the study is to see if there are patterns in traffic-related fatalities overall, with a particular attention given to a comparative analysis of Italy and Germany. In order to support this comparison, key variables such as GDP per capita, population size and length of highways are analyzed for both nations. The results show a relation between most cultural factors and driving behavior. However, the study shows that both Italy and Germany already have low traffic fatality rates, which is supported by the general socioeconomic factors of the countries.