Modeling the Pedestrian Crossing Choice in Urban Streets (Case study: Qazvin Urban Streets)

Abstract

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users in traffic accidents. This study aims to analyze the effective factors in choosing the type of crossing by pedestrians. The required data were collected through interviews based on PBS questionnaire and video images of crossing pedestrians in Qazvin city. The observed variables such as individual characteristics, crossing choices, traffic volume and the role of latent variables of pedestrian behaviors are considered on crossing choices. Latent behavioral variables were identified through exploratory factor analysis and were divided into positive and negative habits. In addition, structural equation model, traditional binary logit, and hybrid discrete choice model were used in this paper. The results show that men are less likely to use a pedestrian overpass than women. In addition, young people in the range of 18-30 and 30-45 are more eager to use overpass than older ones. Further, negative behavioral habits such as distraction and inattention, error, and violation resulted in choosing a riskier alternative compared to level crossing. Further, positive behavioral habits such as daily walking had a positive effect on choosing safer crossing alternative (pedestrian overpass). The findings are useful in developing policy measures to build safe and efficient facilities.