How Signs, Markings, and Hazards Impact Motorist Assessment of Cyclist Lane Placement. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Still, Mary L.; Still, Jeremiah D.
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society ... Annual Meeting. Volume 64:Part 1(2020)
• Page Start: 1948
• Page End: 1949
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Human engineering -- Congresses; 620.8205
• DOI: 10.1177/1071181320641468
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1541-9312

Abstract

Human factors research has led to safer interactions between motorists through redesigned signage, roadway designs, and training. Similar efforts are needed to understand and improve interactions between cyclists and motorists. One challenge to safe motorist-cyclist interactions are expectations about where cyclists should be on the road. In this study, we utilize more directive signage and additional lane markings to clarify where cyclists should ride in the travel lane. The impact of these signifiers was examined by having motorists indicate where cyclists should ride in the lane, how difficult it was to determine the correct lane position, and how safe they would feel if they were in that lane position. Results indicate that more directive signage – "bicycles take the lane"-and painted hazard signifiers can change motorists' expectations, so they are more aligned with safer cyclist positioning in the lane.