The world of behavioral economics has become hugely popular in recent years, with Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein’s book Nudge inspiring a whole range of initiatives to apply behavioral thinking to prod us to behave better.
As a cyclist that regularly braves city traffic, it was interesting to see the latest study in this area that suggests simple changes to road signage could have a significant impact on road safety.
Improving cycle safety
A common issue for cyclists is that of overtaking. Despite most motoring guides suggesting that cars should overtake bikes with as much space as they would if overtaking another vehicle (ie using the other lane in the road to do so), it’s all too common for drivers to squeeze past perilously close.
Such encounters lead to a pretty fractious relationship between motorists and cyclists, with the comments section of most articles on the subject online highlighting the disconnect between each group.
The researchers conducted an online survey of nearly 2,000 people to solicit feedback on three different traffic control methods. Each of the three was attempting to communicate the message that cyclists are fully entitled to be in the middle of the lane, and don’t have to squeeze to the left.
Cyclists may use the full lane
Interestingly, the most effective, in terms of accepting cyclists right to be on the road, was a sign that said “Bicycle May Use Full Lane”. This scored much better than “Share the Road” signs that are often used, and also higher than images of a bicycle on the road.
“‘Bicycles May Use Full Lane,'” is a pretty clear winner,” the authors say.
The study did highlight the perception gap that persists with motorists however. Whilst 92% of those who saw the sign understood that it was legal for cyclists to use the middle of the lane, just 70% believed it was safe for them to do so.
The authors hope that their research will encourage transport officials to modify their signage to something that encourages greater respect of cyclists on the roads, especially in notable hot spots.
They hope to put their theory to the test in live situations in future studies to see whether theory translates into actions on the road, but they are adamant that anything that encourages greater adoption of cycling has to be a good thing.
“Replacing a personal motor vehicle with a bicycle is the single most environmentally beneficial and personally profitable action most people can ever take,” they conclude.
Once upon a time I was a motorcyclist. Nobody ever saw me but I had the advantage of being able to move faster than those driving cars and thus was in control of my fate. I can't imagine sharing the roads while riding a bicycle. Not only do bicycles move significantly slower than cars but they are even more invisible to motorists than motorcycles, and I don't see how any road sign will alter those facts. When I first saw the title of this posting I thought maybe someone was experimenting again with projected (holographic) signage. The greatest danger to motorists as presented by signs are the structures that hold them aloft. Those exist for cars to run into and injure passengers. So, pedal away my friends, and God keep and heal you when you're hit…
Yes, it can be a bit dicey at times Jack, but still infinitely more enjoyable than taking public transport. I've had a few tumbles and scrapes, but nothing life threatening (touch wood).
I wouldn't like to cycle on London's roads, even with whizzy road signs. Looks like utter bedlam.
Interesting stuff, thanks.
I think if you are driving any vehicle on road it’s of utmost importance that you should follow all the road safety rules and traffic rules. Don’t neglect anyone, accuse them and consider their status to be low if they are driving a vehicle small them yours. Everyone has the same right of driving on the road as you have so whether he is bicyclist or a pedestrian you should not neglect anyone. Follow the rules and inspire others too. Be a part to reduce the chances of accidents by sharing knowledge and right traffic rules. I have two cars and still on some days I like to go to gym by cycle. I follow all rules whichever vehicle I use on roads.
Agree with you it’s very important to provide safety to cyclists. I think government should need to take some solid steps and construct new link roads for this purpose.
Agree with you it's very important to provide safety to cyclists. I think government should need to take some solid steps and construct new link roads for this purpose.
Both cyclist and motorists should follow the road signs. It will give more road safety. Cyclist should avoid overtaking with motorists. They should use the left lane on the road. I think it will give cyclist a better road safety. Life is more important than time.