Projects and Publications

Canadians not overly concerned about vulnerable road users: Poll

OTTAWA, October 14, 2009 – Canadians are not overly concerned about the behaviours and safety of pedestrians and bicyclists according to a public opinion poll conducted in September 2008 by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation. However, crash data and self-reported behaviour illustrate that concern is still warranted.

“Pedestrians and bicyclists are among the most vulnerable of road users,” says Ward Vanlaar, TIRF researcher and lead author of the Road Safety Monitor series. “In collisions with other road users, they often suffer the most severe consequences because they have less protection from physical harm than occupants of vehicles.”

To illustrate, according to Transport Canada, in Canada in 2006, there were 374 pedestrian fatalities accounting for 12.9% of all road user fatalities and there were 73 bicyclists killed accounting for 2.5% of all road user fatalities.

“In terms of self-reported behaviour, both pedestrians and bicyclists admit to engaging in risky behaviours,” says Vanlaar. "According to the survey, almost a quarter of pedestrians indicated that they frequently jaywalk, 12.2% indicated that they frequently cross the street while listening to an mp3 player or CD-player, or using a cell phone, and 11.8% frequently cross at a crosswalk when a vehicle has the right of way.”

Of those surveyed, 41.2% reported that they ride a bicycle. Of all bicyclists, 8.9% admitted to frequently crossing the street while listening to an mp3 player or CD-player, or using a cell phone, 8.5% admitted to frequently weaving in and out of traffic while riding their bicycle on the road, and 8.3% said they ride their bike at night when they are not easily visible to traffic.

Vanlaar reminds pedestrians and bicyclists that limiting your distractions while operating a bicycle or while walking decreases the likelihood of collision and injury. He also notes the importance of taking the necessary precautions, such as reflective clothing, when walking or cycling at night.

“Many pedestrian fatalities typically occur at night or under dark conditions with artificial lighting,” reports Vanlaar. “For bicyclists, comparable findings show that many fatally injured bicycle crashes also occur at night or in dark but lighted conditions.”

The survey also looked at the use of alcohol by vulnerable road users. While the majority of respondents (87%) indicated that they do not think that pedestrians and bicyclists involved in collisions are frequently under the influence of alcohol, research shows, however, that alcohol is a major contributing factor in pedestrian crashes. “In 2006, pedestrians under the influence of alcohol accounted for 12.3% of alcohol related road deaths in Canada,” reveals Vanlaar. “Of the pedestrian fatalities tested for alcohol, 42% had been drinking and 27% of those who had been drinking had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .16% or higher, twice the legal limit to operate a motor vehicle.”

Respondents were also asked about safety features and countermeasures to raise the profile of pedestrian and bicyclist safety. Of those surveyed, over half (53.3%) agreed that all pedestrians involved in serious crashes should be tested for drugs and alcohol. 29.3% agreed that there should be increased fines for jaywalking; and 28.4% agreed that there should be penalties for pedestrians who fail to walk toward oncoming traffic when there are no sidewalks.

“Given the high number of near misses reported by drivers and the devastating damage that can result from crashes, regardless of whether drivers are at fault or not, being vigilant at all times and slowing down could go a long way in improving the safety of vulnerable road users,” says Vanlaar. “On the other hand, vulnerable road users themselves have to be prudent and respect traffic rules. As a vulnerable road user, you will always be in the weakest position when being involved in a crash and not being at fault will not change that.”

About the poll
These results are based on the Road Safety Monitor (RSM), an annual public opinion survey conducted by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF). A total of 1,201 Canadians completed the interview. Results can be considered accurate within plus or minus 2.9%, 19 times out of 20. This report was made possible by financial support from Transport Canada and the Brewers Association of Canada.

About TIRF
Established in 1964, TIRF’s mission is to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries. As a national, independent, charitable road safety institute, TIRF designs, promotes, and implements effective programs and policies, based on sound research. TIRF is a registered charity and depends on grants, contracts, and donations to provide services for the public. Visit us online at www.tirf.ca.

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For more information, please contact:

Sara Oglestone
Manager, Marketing and Communications

613-238-5235 (office)
1-877-238-5235 (toll-free)
sarao@tirf.ca
http://www.tirf.ca/