![]() ![]() Examples of data collection tools are available in appendices 1–3.Īll observations were completed by two trained observers. The number of lanes crossed for each street was recorded. The width of the street was obtained by manually measuring the distances using a rolling measuring device. Traffic volume data and collision data were obtained from the Seattle Department of Transportation. ![]() 5, 6, 20 We sought to expand on prior research by studying distracting behaviours in a large group of pedestrians during the act of crossing the street. The few studies that have occurred in real environments have focused on individual locations, age groups, or distractions, or have tracked violations without examining their relationship to distracted walking. However, removing pedestrians from their natural environment and making them aware of the focus on their walking behaviour may alter their actions. 22–25 Simulated environments offer more control of conditions and capture demographic and behavioural background on participants. 5, 20–22 Studies of distracted pedestrians have primarily focused on the behaviour of selected subjects in a simulated environment. Pedestrians tend to act less cautiously when distracted, whether by cellphones, music players, food, or other people. Less is known about the impact of distraction on pedestrian behaviour or risk. 11–18 Among drivers, cohort studies indicate that the use of voice/text devices is associated with crash risks ranging from 4–23 times above baseline levels. 10 Talking on the phone, texting, using an MP3 player or adjusting vehicle music controls diminish driver focus and increase the risk of a crash. 7–9 Distraction has been more frequently studied among drivers than pedestrians up to 28% of driver crash risk is attributable to distraction from cell phone use or text messaging. As of 2011, there were more phones than people in the USA, and internationally, the number of mobile phone subscriptions is an estimated 5.9 billion. 6ĭistracted walking, like distracted driving, is likely to increase in parallel with the penetration of electronic devices into the consumer market. 5 In a study from Vancouver (British Columbia, Canada), 21% of pedestrians observed committed one or more crossing violations. While poor intersection design and dangerous driving account for some pedestrian fatalities, a recent study found that actions by pedestrians may account for as much as 15% of all deaths. Cautionary behaviours include using sidewalks and crosswalks when available, obeying traffic signals and looking both ways before entering the street. 3, 4 Although the law assigns pedestrians the right of way, it does not relieve pedestrians of looking out for their own safety. 2 In Washington, as in most US states, traffic laws require that vehicles yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. 1 Globally, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users account for almost half of road traffic deaths. Motor vehicle–pedestrian crashes remain a significant source of serious injury, with an estimated 60 000 pedestrians injured and 4000 killed per year in the USA. ![]()
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