Bicyclist Behavior at Stop Signs

Abstract

Unobtrusive observations of bicyclists were conducted at two-way, three-way, and four-way stop-controlled intersections. Consistent with previous reports, most cyclists did not stop at the stop sign. However, most cyclists did exhibit safety-related behaviors by making accommodations for traffic conditions. It was found that the cyclists conducted precautionary visual search when approaching stop signs, and that they were more likely to slow substantially or stop if cross traffic was not controlled by stop signs or if there were potential conflicts from other road users. Implications for safety interventions are discussed.