The role of knowledge and trust in developing risk perceptions of autonomous vehicles: a moderated mediation model

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) hold promise for revolutionizing transportation and reducing accidents. However, public opinions of AVs remain ambivalent and negative, potentially related to the risk of they perceive. The present study considers the complex dynamics shaping public risk perceptions of AVs, emphasizing the mediating role of trust in the relationship between AV-related knowledge and risk perceptions. The study also considers desire for experience, perceived safety, and deference toward scientific authority as moderators in this relationship. This cross-sectional survey sampled a total of 323 U.S. adults from an online panel. Findings reveal that trust significantly mediates the connection between knowledge and risk perceptions. Desire for experience intensifies the positive association between knowledge and trust. Perceived safety strengthens the negative association between trust and risk perceptions. While deference toward scientific authority did not influence the knowledge-trust relationship, it moderated the impact of trust on risk perceptions. The findings highlighted the need for a nuanced approach to public engagement, emphasizing trust-building initiatives alongside knowledge dissemination. Overall, the research contributed valuable insights for stakeholders navigating the future of AVs built on public acceptance and risk perception.