This report details the method and results of a study to investigate the relative safety of cycling on the road and footpath and of a variety of cycling behaviours. A method was developed for the collection of cyclist exposure (duration of travel) and behavioural (including helmet wearing) information in 105 randomly selected observation zones in metropolitan melbourne. Additional work was also undertaken in the area of accident data, comprising accident typology coding and an investigation of underreporting issues. Results were provided on exposure patterns, accident involvement risk estimates and helmet wearing rates. A general interpretation of the comprehensive set of results presented in the report indicates that the safety benefits of allowing footpath cycling along arterial roads would be much greater than in the non arterial environment. Significant improvements in the safety of footpath cycling could be accomplished if effective strategies to reduce the incidence of transitional, rideout cycling could be implemented. (Author/publisher) The study was commissioned by the Road Traffic Authority and Victoria State Bicycle Committee.
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