A Cognitive Study on Traffic Calming Measures at Urban Dwellings
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4025/actascitechnol.v48i1.70944Abstract
Traffic calming measures aim to lessen accidents and increase user mobility in areas with large pedestrian traffic. Reduced speed zones and infrastructural modifications are two operations carried out to achieve the same. These measures may have the opposite impact on road users´ perception regarding safety and accidents, in case of faulty design or improper location. This study examines road users' behavioral aspects towards such measures in two phases. The first phase identifies the key factors influencing road-user perception and the second phase examines the effect of speed bumps and chicanes on road user´s safety. An online questionnaire was distributed among the road users of Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities of northern India, wherein 303 valid responses were analyzed. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and a Second-Order Confirmatory Factor Analysis (SCFA) were employed to prove the hypothesized model. The analysis revealed that familiarity, need, and comfort significantly contribute to the road user's positive perception, whereas negative perception incorporated factors such as traffic congestion, sudden speed reduction, and unrecognizable signage on traffic-calmed streets. As a case study, the overall impact of a speed bump was also observed, which was later removed and replaced by Chicanes in response to public outcry and discomfort. A comparative speed profile of both measures suggests their effectiveness and safety criteria. By considering citizens' perceptions and concerns, policymakers can improve the effectiveness of speed-reducing measures that meet the requirements of all road users.
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