The Dula Dangerous Driving Index in China: An investigation of reliability and validity

•The Chinese Dula Dangerous Driving Index (DDDI) has a highly reliable and stable structure.•The Chinese version of the DDDI supports the four-factor model.•Measures of convergent and criterion validity demonstrate that the Chinese DDDI is valid.•Young drivers showed more risky driving behaviors than older drivers, and drivers with more experience (via driving years) may exhibit significantly riskier driving behaviors than less experienced drivers.•The Chinese DDDI can be used to develop training courses and interventions for professional drivers in China.

The aim of this study was to translate the Dula Dangerous Driving Index (DDDI) into Chinese and to verify its reliability and validity. A total of 246 drivers completed the Chinese version of the DDDI and the Driver Behavior Questionnaire (DBQ). Specific sociodemographic variables and traffic violations were also measured. A confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the internal structure of the DDDI, and the four-factor model was supported in China. Measures of convergent and criterion validity demonstrated that the Chinese DDDI was valid. Its convergent validity was supported by its positive relationship with the DBQ, and its criterion validity was tested using its relationship with self-reported accident involvement and traffic violations. Finally, score comparisons between different demographic groups revealed significant differences, thereby linking age and driving years to dangerous driving.