Fietsers van 12 tot 16 jaar : eindrapportage "Taakanalyse fietsers en bromfietsers" : deel 2. In opdracht van de Stichting Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek Verkeersveiligheid SWOV.

This report is one of three final reports of a five years research project on young cyclists and moped riders: "task analysis for cyclists and moped riders" it focuses on 12- to 16 year old cyclists. The report starts with a description of the situation of the target group in terms of traffic safety. The absolute number of bicycle accidents is markedly higher in the 12 to 16 year old group than in all other age groups. The accident risk per kilometre, however, is similar to that of adult cyclists. The circumstances and causes of accidents are similar to those involving adults. Traffic behaviour and the contributing factors such as knowledge of traffic rules, attitudes and cognitive processes are then discussed. The behaviour of young cyclists deviates in many respects from what is considered desirable. Knowledge of the priority regulation is insufficient, particularly for junctions where the general rules should be applied and in situations where more traffic participants approach at the same time. The willingness to comply with traffic rules is relatively low. It is suggested that this is related to a lack of understanding of the reasons and benefits of traffic rules. The last part of the report focuses upon the possibilities of measures to increase the safety of the target group. The advantages and disadvantages of infrastructural, legal and educational measures in general are discussed. Most effect must be expected from educational measures as these can be attuned directly to the problems and needs of a specific target group. The available educational materials for children in secondary schools in the netherlands are discussed. The necessary content of traffic education is deduced from a theoretical analysis of the cycle task and empirical data. Educational objectives are (re)formulated. The last chapter consists of conclusions with respect to the problems of young cyclists and recommendations with respect to traffic safety education in secondary schools and further research. For part 3 of the report see IRRD 828574.