Risk compensation is a theory suggesting that individuals tend to adjust their behavior based on their perceived level of risk. People tend to take more risks when they feel safer due to protective measures, which can result in unanticipated outcomes where the overall benefit of safety measures is less than expected or may even lead to greater risks.
For instance, studies have shown that drivers tend to follow the vehicles in front of them more closely when their cars are equipped with anti-lock brakes, assuming that the added safety will prevent accidents, leading to riskier driving behavior.
To mitigate risk compensation, it's essential to enhance safety education and awareness, encouraging individuals to maintain cautious behavior, regardless of the perceived safety measures in place.