A percepção da segurança cicloviária em cruzamentos urbanos não semaforizados

Abstract

The increasing number of traffic related accidents has transformed streets into a chaotic environment in terms of safety. In this chaotic environment, cyclists are forced to take their daily commute while being one of the most vulnerable road users. They face several challenges such as the lack of dedicated infrastructure for cycling. This often causes feelings of insecurity in the cyclists, which is considered by several authors as one of the main barriers against riding bicycles in urban commutes. The higher number of traffic conflicts and greater probability of accidents at intersections intensify this feeling of insecurity. Accordingly, the aim of this study is to analyze the cyclist's safety perception at non-signalized urban intersection, with or without cycling infrastructure. To do so, an online survey was used to collect data regarding the perception of safety for 14 different scenarios of traffic conflicts at non-signalized intersections. A total of 458 responses were collected, which were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, and by the application of Ordered Logistic Regression (OLR) of Proportional Odds. Results indicated a tendency to perceive conflicts at intersections with shared lanes as the most insecure scenarios for respondents`, while intersections with cycling track in the median as the safest. Conflicts in scenarios with car driver approaching behind the cyclist and turning right or left are identified as the most insecure scenarios. The OLR calibration indicated that the following variables are significant in explaining safety perception: type of infrastructure and conflict, intersection illumination, pavement markings and signalization, gender, age, driver’s license possession, and type of bicycle user (utilitarian, leisure, and non-cyclists). In conclusion, the objectives proposed were accomplished and results can contribute to the understanding of road safety for cyclists, especially in developing countries.