James Fell | Impaired Driving | Excellence in Research

Mr. James Fell – Impaired Driving – Excellence in Research

NORC at the University of Chicago | United States

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Education and Training

He embarked on his academic journey at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering in 1966, followed by a Master of Science in Human Factors Engineering in 1967. His early research focused on human short-term memory and computer simulations, setting the foundation for his future contributions in human factors research.

 Professional Endeavors 💼

Academic Positions

His professional career is marked by significant roles in prominent organizations dedicated to traffic safety and alcohol policy:

  • National Opinion Research Center (NORC): Since February 2016, James has served as a Principal Research Scientist, focusing on behavioral studies in traffic safety, impaired driving countermeasures, and the impact of alcohol policies. His work includes consulting for international bodies like the United Nations and leading research on impaired driving issues globally.
  • Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation (PIRE): From May 2001 to January 2016, James held the position of Senior Research Scientist II, where he spearheaded evaluations of enforcement programs and laws related to impaired driving and underage drinking. His contributions include pivotal studies on graduated driver licensing laws and the effectiveness of alcohol ignition interlock devices.
  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): James held several key positions at NHTSA, including Chief of Research and Evaluation Division and Program Manager of the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). His leadership in developing national research programs and managing significant budgets underscores his impact on traffic safety policy and practice.

Contributions and Research Focus on Impaired Driving📚

  • Throughout his career, he has authored over 100 scientific publications and led numerous research initiatives that have shaped traffic safety policies in the United States and beyond. His research focuses on:
    • Impaired Driving: Evaluating the effectiveness of enforcement strategies, alcohol ignition interlock laws, and high visibility enforcement efforts.
    • Underage Drinking: Studying the impact of underage drinking laws and community intervention programs on reducing alcohol-related fatalities among young drivers.
    • Policy Evaluation: Assessing the implementation and outcomes of traffic safety laws, including graduated driver licensing and administrative license revocation laws.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

his contributions to traffic safety research have been widely recognized:

  • Chairman’s WRAPPY Award (2023): Recognized by the Washington Regional Alcohol Program for dedication to preventing impaired driving.
  • Award of Merit (2019): Highest honor from the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine for significant scientific contributions to automotive medicine.
  • International Council on Alcohol, Drugs, and Traffic Safety (ICADTS) Haddon Award (2019): Acknowledged for implementing evidence-based changes in public policy to enhance traffic safety.

 Impact and Influence 🌍

Community Impact

his research has had a profound impact on policy formulation and public awareness of traffic safety issues. His work has influenced legislative decisions, enforcement strategies, and public health initiatives aimed at reducing impaired driving and promoting safer road behaviors.

 Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

    • he continues to be actively involved in research and advocacy aimed at improving traffic safety outcomes. His ongoing projects include evaluating racial profiling in traffic stops, assessing the effectiveness of graduated driver licensing laws, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in traffic safety practices.

Notable Publications 

Christian Ratering | Spatial Transport and mobility planning | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Christian Ratering | Spatial Transport and mobility planning | Best Researcher Award

Radboud University Netherlands

Professional Profiles:

Orcid Profile

Researchgate Profile

Linkedin Profile

Early Academic Pursuits:

Christian Ratering began his academic journey by obtaining a Master of Arts degree in Spatial Planning Policymaking from the University of Utrecht between 2000 and 2004. His thesis, focusing on a spatial development comparison study between Centro Oberhausen (Germany) and Amsterdam Arena (the Netherlands), showcased his early commitment to in-depth research and analysis in the field.

Professional Endeavors:

With a solid educational foundation, His ventured into various roles that shaped his expertise. He started in banking services before transitioning to a career in spatial transport planning and mobility advising. Notably, his tenure at the Municipality of Nieuwegein from 2002 to 2020 provided extensive experience in this domain, culminating in senior advisory roles for municipalities like Ede and Renkum.

Contributions and Research Focus:

His contributions extend beyond his professional roles. His dedication to advancing knowledge in mobility and spatial planning is evident through his participation in research projects and memberships in influential groups like TRAIL, focusing on transport, infrastructure, and logistics. His published works in esteemed platforms like Science Direct and Vexpansie reflect his commitment to sharing insights, from defining shared mobility challenges for policymakers to advocating for socially conscious parking policies.

Accolades and Recognition:

His contributions have been recognized through presentations at national congresses and trade fairs, showcasing his expertise in areas like embracing shared mobility, parking standards, and the importance of accommodating diverse mobility needs, such as addressing traffic anxiety.

Impact and Influence:

His impact is multifaceted, ranging from advising municipalities on crucial policies to influencing academia through his ongoing PhD research at Radboud University Nijmegen, focusing on 'Moving around with an anxiety disorder.' His involvement in advisory groups for parking guidelines and shared mobility at both local and provincial levels underscores his influence on shaping mobility policies.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

His legacy lies in bridging academia and practical policymaking in the realm of mobility and spatial planning. His extensive publications, presentations, and advisory roles reflect a commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable, and socially conscious mobility solutions. His future contributions are poised to further advance the understanding and implementation of progressive mobility policies for diverse communities.