This literature review examines the relationship between traffic lane widths on the safety of road users. It focuses on the impacts of lane widths on motor vehicle behaviour and cyclists' safety. Research shows that traffic lane width influences drivers' perceived difficulty of the task, risk perception and possibly speed choices. Total roadway width, and the presence of on-road cycling facilities, influence cyclists' positioning on the road. Lateral displacement between bicycles and vehicles is smallest when a marked bicycle facility is present. Reduced motor vehicle speeds can significantly improve the safety of vulnerable road users, particularly pedestrians and cyclists. It has been shown that if road lane widths on urban roads were reduced, through various mechanisms, it could result in a safer environment for all road users. (Author/publisher)
Abstract