The effects of cycle lanes, vehicle to kerb distance and vehicle type on cyclists' attention allocation during junction negotiation

Abstract

Increased frequency of cycle journeys has led to an escalation in collisions between cyclists and vehicles, particularly at shared junctions. Risks associated with passing decisions have been shown to influence cyclists' behavioural intentions. The current study extended this research by linking not only risk perception but also attention allocation (via tracking the eye movements of twenty cyclists viewing junction approaches presented on video) to behavioural intentions. These constructs were measured in a variety of contexts: junctions featuring cycle lanes, large vs. small vehicles and differing kerb to vehicle distances). Overall, cyclists devoted the majority of their attention to the nearside (side closest to kerb) of vehicles, and perceived near and offside (side furthest from kerb) passing as most risky. Waiting behind was the most frequent behavioural intention, followed by nearside and then offside passing. While cycle lane presence did not affect behaviour, it did lead to nearside passing being perceived as less risky, and to less attention being devoted to the offside. Large vehicles led to increased risk perceived with passing, and more attention directed towards the rear of vehicles, with reduced offside passing and increased intentions to remain behind the vehicle. Whether the vehicle was large or small, nearside passing was preferred around 30% of the time. Wide kerb distances increased nearside passing intentions and lower associated perceptions of risk. Additionally, relationships between attention and both risk evaluations and behaviours were observed. These results are discussed in relation to the cyclists' situational awareness and biases that various contextual factors can introduce. From these, recommendations for road safety and training are suggested.

Keywords: Attention; Collision; Cycling; Eye tracking; Passing; Risk.