Modeling Crossing Behavior and Accident Risk of Pedestrians
Publication: Journal of Transportation Engineering
Volume 133, Issue 11
Abstract
This paper presents a methodology for modeling pedestrians’ crossing behavior along an urban trip, as well as an algorithm for the estimation of accident risk along the trip. For that purpose, existing models are exploited and further developed. In particular, a nested logit model and a linear regression model are merged and adapted to develop a hierarchical crossing behavior model, allowing for the estimation of a distribution of crossing probabilities on an urban road link among junctions and various midblock locations. The explanatory variables concern a set of directly measurable geometric and traffic characteristics. A second model is then developed for the estimation of the distribution of crossing probabilities along a trip in relation to the distance from the trip origin. Both models were sufficiently validated by means of appropriate surveys. On the basis of these models, a complete framework for the assessment of pedestrians’ crossing behavior in urban areas is developed. Moreover, a set of formulas for the calculation of accident risk along a trip in relation to the estimated crossing behavior of pedestrians is proposed.
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Acknowledgments
This research was supported by the European Commission within the “HEARTS-Health effects and risks of transport systems” project of the 5th Framework Programme. The writers would also like to thank Mr. Sylvain Lassarre, Research Director in the French National Institute of Transport and Safety Research (INRETS) for his useful comments and suggestions throughout this research.
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© 2007 ASCE.
History
Received: Sep 25, 2006
Accepted: Mar 7, 2007
Published online: Nov 1, 2007
Published in print: Nov 2007
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