How to promote road safety?
As cities embrace micromobility as a sustainable solution to urban transport challenges, the road to success isn’t without obstacles. While micromobility has the potential to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and promote healthier lifestyles, issues like road safety, infrastructure gaps, and regulatory concerns continue to hinder its widespread adoption. Understanding these challenges and addressing them systematically is key to ensuring that micromobility fulfills its promise.
The Safety Challenge One of the most pressing concerns in micromobility is road safety. A recent OECD report on micromobility safety highlights that electric scooters, bicycles, and other lightweight vehicles account for a growing share of road incidents. For instance, in many European cities, injuries among micromobility users have increased as their adoption has surged. Lack of dedicated infrastructure, unclear regulations, and conflicts with motor vehicles are some of the primary contributors to these accidents.
According to a European Transport Safety Council report, pedestrians and micromobility users are the most vulnerable road users, often lacking adequate protections in mixed-traffic environments. This makes creating safe and accessible infrastructure a top priority.
Overcoming Challenges: Building Safer Cities
Dedicated Infrastructure:
Cities must invest in separate, well-maintained lanes for micromobility users. For example, Copenhagen’s extensive cycling network is a gold standard, featuring over 450 kilometers of protected lanes. Such infrastructure not only reduces accidents but also encourages more people to opt for micromobility.
Improved Regulations:
Harmonized rules across Europe can help reduce confusion for micromobility users. Setting clear speed limits, requiring safety gear like helmets, and defining appropriate zones for e-scooters and bicycles are essential steps. Cities like Paris have introduced speed caps of 25 km/h for e-scooters and designated parking zones to avoid cluttering pedestrian spaces.
Awareness Campaigns:
Public education is crucial for fostering coexistence among road users. Campaigns targeting both micromobility users and drivers can promote mutual respect and understanding. For example, the “Share the Road” initiative in the UK emphasizes the need for drivers to give cyclists a safe passing distance.
Technology Integration:
Leveraging technology can enhance safety. Features like geofencing, which restricts speed in pedestrian-heavy areas, or apps that provide real-time information on bike lane availability, can make micromobility safer and more user-friendly.
Data-Driven Planning:
Collecting and analyzing usage data can help cities identify high-risk areas and plan interventions effectively. For instance, Barcelona uses data from its bike-sharing system to optimize its cycling infrastructure and improve safety.
Promoting a Culture of Safety:
Beyond physical and regulatory measures, fostering a culture that prioritizes safety is equally important. This includes educating all road users—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians—about their shared responsibility for safety. Engaging with communities, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, ensures that micromobility solutions are inclusive and accessible.
A Safer Future for Micromobility is possible.
The challenges facing micromobility are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With proactive measures, innovative thinking, and a commitment to creating safer urban environments, cities can unlock the full potential of micromobility. By addressing safety concerns head-on, we can ensure that micromobility remains a viable, sustainable, and equitable option for all.
Let’s work together to make our cities safer, smarter, and more connected—one bike lane and e-scooter at a time.
