How dangerous is it when cyclists and pedestrians are distracted in traffic?

Answer

Cyclists

On the crash risk of distracted cyclists hardly any data are available. The results of a survey by VeiligheidNL (SafetyNL) indicate that, contrary to expectations, cyclists using their phones are less often involved in bicycle crashes than cyclists who never use their phonesn [11]. These outcomes might point to a - very opportune - adaptation of behaviour compensating for the effects of distraction. There are, indeed, indications of such a behavioural adaptation: a majority of cyclists indicate that, when phoning or listening to music, they adjust their behaviour by cycling more slowly and looking around more [49]. Nor can it be ruled out that other road users compensate for the behaviour of distracted cyclists. Another consideration to be taken into account is that the study by SafetyNL concerns self-reported behaviour, which depends on a respondent’s recollection as well as his willingness to admit phone use while cycling. In view of the limitations of self-reported behaviour and the unexpected findings, more evidence is needed to draw conclusions about the crash risk of phone use among cyclists.

Pedestrians

For the Netherlands, no data are available about the crash risk of distracted pedestrians. In the United States, the percentage of pedestrians who die in a road crash while using a phone increased from less than 1% in 2004 to 3.6% in 2010 [13]. Although distracted pedestrians display unsafe behaviour, a study with crossing passengers in virtual surroundings did not find any direct evidence that phone use while walking results in a higher crash risk [37]. Since studies among these road users are scarce, it is difficult to draw solid conclusions.

Part of fact sheet

Distraction in traffic

The mobile phone is symbolic of ‘distraction in traffic’.

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