Research into the efficiency and impact of road safety measures for bicycle traffic
23038
From 2023 to 2024
TML was commissioned by Fietsberaad Vlaanderen to study the impact of five local traffic safety measures for cyclists: zone 30, circulation plans, speed reductions, traffic light regulations, and new cycle paths. The study included a quantification of the effects on road safety, costs, and public support, to identify the most efficient and accepted measures through a social cost-benefit analysis and citizen survey.
With this study, Fietsberaad Vlaanderen aimed to objectify how five measures impact the road safety of bicycle traffic. We examined five typical measures that can be taken at local level and appear in the Flemish road safety plan:
TML quantified the following dimensions for each of these measures: the effect on road safety, the cost of the measure, and the acceptance of the measure by the general public. To assess the road safety impact, we relied on results from the international scientific literature and evaluation studies that have already been carried out in Flanders. We conducted a social cost-benefit analysis to determine which measures are the most efficient. We also used an extensive citizens’ survey to find out which measures have the greatest public support.
With this study, Fietsberaad Vlaanderen aimed to objectify how five measures impact the road safety of bicycle traffic. We examined five typical measures that can be taken at local level and appear in the Flemish road safety plan:
- zone 30 for the entire urban area,
- introduction of a circulation plan,
- speed reduction from 70 km/h to 50 km/h on roads without separate bicycle paths,
- conflict-free regulation of traffic lights, and
- construction of bike paths.
TML quantified the following dimensions for each of these measures: the effect on road safety, the cost of the measure, and the acceptance of the measure by the general public. To assess the road safety impact, we relied on results from the international scientific literature and evaluation studies that have already been carried out in Flanders. We conducted a social cost-benefit analysis to determine which measures are the most efficient. We also used an extensive citizens’ survey to find out which measures have the greatest public support.
