Informal Communication Signals Among Drivers: A Behavioural and Technological  Assessment of Road Safety in Zimbabwe

Pardon J Muzondo; Kudzanai Matowanyika; Nelson Chipangamate

doi:10.63726/jmsit.v1i2.473

Authors

Pardon J Muzondo Marondera University of Agricultural Science and Technology
Kudzanai Matowanyika Chinhoyi University of Technology
Nelson Chipangamate University of Witwatersrand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63726/jmsit.v1i2.473

Keywords:

Informal Driver Communication, Road Safety, Mixed Methods, Zimbabwe, Non-verbal Signalling

Abstract

This study explores the informal communication signals among drivers in Zimbabwe, focusing on
their behavioural patterns and compatibility with emerging vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) technologies.
Using a mixed-methods approach, the study surveyed 400 licensed drivers and conducted 30 in
depth interviews with traffic police officers, road safety experts, and experienced drivers. Field
observations were also analysed thematically. Quantitative data were processed using SPSS to test
hypotheses on demographic differences, safety outcomes, and signalling patterns. Chi-square tests
and logistic regression revealed significant relationships between informal signal use and near
miss incidents, particularly among younger and peri-urban drivers. Qualitative findings confirmed
that stress, cultural learning, and experiential factors drive signalling practices, which are largely
incompatible with automated communication systems. Results highlight a disconnect between
human behaviour and technological standardisation. The study recommends an integrated
strategy combining culturally sensitive driver training and adaptive AI systems. These findings
contribute to behavioural transport theory and offer practical insights for policy, driver education,
and smart mobility design in low- and middle-income countries.