Commuter Cyclist Crash Incidence Rate on Cycling Infrastructure in Lyon and Marseille (France)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to document the crash incidence rate for cyclists when cycling on five different types of cycling infrastructure in two cities in France. A questionnaire was carried out in 2021 with commuter cyclists in Lyon-Villeurbanne (n=780) and Marseille-Aix-en-Provence (n=404). Respondents provided data on their regular cycling trip and on crashes they have experienced. Using a Geographical Information System, the exposure of cyclists on each type of infrastructure was determined. By relating the number of crashes to the number of kilometres travelled, crash rates (per kilometre travelled) and the 95 percent confidence interval were estimated. This study shows that in the two cities studied, the crash incidence rate is significantly higher on contraflow cycle lanes than on the road. On the contrary, shared-use paths (greenways) are associated with a lower crash incidence rate compared to the road. Results for the other types of cycling infrastructure are unclear. Recommendations are discussed. Further studies are required to improve the design of cycling infrastructure and the broader transport policy to support safe cycling.