Propensity and Proclivity of Vulnerable Road Users Towards Personalised Road Safety Solutions

Vulnerable road users (VRUs) account for ~70% of Europe’s total road fatalities. Whilst there has been an upsurge in solutions to improve infrastructure safety and vehicle safety, solutions for VRUs have not received the same attention. This study gathers the opinions and preferences of VRUs from across several European nations towards the design and implementation of possible road safety solutions. An online questionnaire survey (available in English, German, Greek and Spanish languages) was shared with potential participants. Based on the data collected for the first three months (30 September 2023 to 31 December 2023), the survey received responses (n = 719) from a wide variety of participant VRU types but chiefly those representing the pedestrian and cyclist groups. Findings reveal there is a strong interest in personalised technology-informed road safety products for VRUs, including safe/clean routing. It is suggested that designs should provide a preference towards fast routes but ideally away from routes used by fast moving vehicles, preferably along designated pedestrian, cycle or bridleways and/or through/near green infrastructure (e.g. public parks) or alongside waterways (e.g. rivers, canals). On-route streetlighting, on-route signposting and road/pavement surface type/condition are also important considerations. It is, therefore, proposed that the insights assembled from participants be judiciously considered when creating the features and functions of any road-safety solutions (e.g. mobile apps). Further, since this is part of a wider project using the precedent of co-creation, it is also proposed that any trials and testing should engage VRUs for evaluation and feedback to enhance the performance and potential market uptake of solutions.