Analysis of traffic rule violations among bike riders. A structural equation model

Abstract

Bikes are becoming an increasingly popular and reliable mode of transportation in developing countries because of their efficiency and ability to navigate through rough terrain and narrow roadways. Bikes are more vulnerable to road accidents and their riders’ safety is the main concern at present days. Hence, it is essential to reduce the possibility of accidents caused by bike riders. The main reason for bike accidents is bike rider behaviours in the form of traffic rules violations. The paper’s main aim is to categorize the importance of seven attributes on traffic rules violations, including bike rider behaviours, road features, ambient conditions, driving skills, type of license, bike age/tenure and riding without a safety device (helmet). Bike riders’ violations that can lead to an accident and the impact of attributes have been analyzed using the structural equation modelling (SEM) technique. To analyze these attributes, 450 bike riders have been interviewed in Bhubaneswar, India. It has been concluded that bike rider behaviours are the most significant attribute of violations. Since most bike riders are young, with low income and education, paying more attention to their training and education before issuing a driving license is necessary. In addition, those who do not use safety devices (helmets) are more susceptible to committing violations. This relates to the lack of enough control and enforcement in developing cities. Also, it shows that the current traffic fines for not using safety devices (helmets) are not enforced enough. Finally, considering this research’s outcomes can help minimize traffic rules violations among bike riders, which is a step towards safer roads.