Effects of roadside tree species on Malaysia driver's emotions associated with vehicle crashes

Abstract

This research aims to study the effects of roadside tree species selection on driver's emotions. The research objectives of this paper are (i) to determine the driver's emotions when passing through the roadside tree species (ii) To examine the relationship between roadside tree species and the driver's emotions. This research used a mixed-method using survey and interviews. Interviews were conducted in a public place such as at rest stops and restaurant around the side of the highway. A set of questionnaires including demographic background and illustration of seven tree shapes along the roadside shown for reference. Ten positive and negative drivers' emotions have been identified and described by the respondents when passing through the road that has different types of trees shapes. Columnar shape tree indicated the first rank for the suggestions of roadside trees species. Parameter joy displayed a very strong relationship that was statistically very high positive correlation with conical shape trees (tau-b=0.89 <0.01). The research expanded the present body of knowledge in the area of the selection of appropriate roadside tree species in urban areas and taking into account the drivers' emotional factors.