[Risk factors for provoking collisions between cyclists and pedestrians in Spain, 1993-2011]

Abstract

Objective: To identify and quantify the factors depending on pedestrians, cyclists and the environment associated with the risk of causing a collision between a cyclist and a pedestrian in Spain from 1993 to 2011.

Study design: retrospective case series.

Population: 1228 pedestrian-cyclist pairs involved in the same number of collisions in an urban area, only one of whom committed an infraction.

Source: Register of Traffic Accidents with Victims, supported by the Spanish Traffic General Directorate.

Variables: committing an infraction (yes/no), age, sex, helmet use (cyclist), hour, type of day, year, existence of sidewalks, place of the accident, and priority regulated.

Analysis: logistic regression model to estimate the strength of the association between the pedestrian's responsibility and independent variables. The association with the cyclist's responsibility was assessed by reversing the value of the odds ratios obtained.

Results: In both groups of users, the risk of causing a collision was higher in extreme ages. Female cyclists had a slightly higher risk than male cyclists, while the use of a helmet had a protective effect. The risk of the pedestrian causing an accident was higher in the absence of sidewalks. Cyclists more frequently provoked accidents in crosswalks.

Conclusion: We recommend the implementation of safety campaigns aimed at pedestrians and cyclists, with special attention paid to the youngest and older people. Interventions for correct road use would also be advisable.

Keywords: Accident; Accidente; Bicycling; Ciclista; Peatón; Riesgo; Risk; Walking.