Road User Attitudes and the Safety of Cyclists

Abstract

Studies of cyclists' involvement in road accidents have tended to concentrate on the behaviour of those involved, and the types of manoeuvers undertaken. This research looks not at the behaviour of road users, but at their attitudes towards each other and aspects of the road network, The safety of cyclists deserves attention for two reasons. First, because of the numbers killed and injured each year. Secondly, because many of those measures which seek to improve conditions for cyclists also benefit the urban environment; by restricting vehicle speeds and traffic access, thereby improving the quality of life for local residents. Repertory grid analysis revealed differences in attitude between those who drive, cycle or both drive and cycle. Postal questionnaire returns from1000 motorists and cyclists, a majority of whom were members of a cycling organisation, indicate that there are marked differences in attitudes towards cycling as a mode of transport and a variety of measures which seek to restrain traffic and encourage cycling. These are dependent upon whether respondents drive, cycle, drive and cycle, or use neither form of transport, and their age group.