Road users’ opinion about pedestrian safety in the emirate of Sharjah, UAE- survey results

Alhmoudi, Mariam; Abuzwidah, Muamer; Hamad, Khaled · 2017 · Crossref

DOI: 10.1051/matecconf/201712007006

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Summary

This study investigates pedestrian safety in the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, motivated by the region’s high road traffic fatality rates compared to Western countries and a lack of localized research on pedestrian-specific risks. Due to the unavailability of comprehensive accident records from government and insurance sources, the researchers relied on survey data to assess road users’ awareness, behaviors, and satisfaction levels. The primary objective was to identify factors influencing pedestrian safety and propose strategies to mitigate accidents in this rapidly developing urban area. The methodology involved distributing a questionnaire via Google Forms and social media platforms in December 2016, collecting responses from 570 participants. The survey captured demographic data, including gender, age, nationality, education, and income, alongside questions regarding driving and walking behaviors. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze the data, determining the significance of various demographic factors on safety-related behaviors and accident exposure. The results revealed that 10.2% of respondents had experienced pedestrian accidents, while 48% reported exposure to hazardous situations while walking. Demographic characteristics such as age, nationality, social status, and education level significantly influenced accident exposure and hazardous situation encounters. Regarding driver behavior, 94.6% claimed to pay attention to pedestrians, and 97% admitted to giving priority at designated crossings. However, 77.1% of drivers expressed resentment toward pedestrian traffic, citing causes like traffic jams and sudden crossings. Drivers identified “traffic signals + marked lines” as the clearest crossing points and reported giving the most attention to pedestrians in mixed-use areas (39%) and school zones (33.9%). Crucially, respondents attributed 49% of pedestrian accidents to pedestrian neglect and errors, and 24% to driver negligence, totaling 73% human-factor causes. Conversely, only 10.4% blamed road design defects. Additionally, 30.2% of pedestrians admitted to crossing in non-designated areas. The study concludes that pedestrian safety in Sharjah is primarily compromised by human behavior rather than infrastructure deficiencies. The authors emphasize an urgent need to re-evaluate pedestrian facilities, specifically their design, location, and availability. Furthermore, they recommend a stronger focus on public education and stricter law enforcement to address the behavioral issues identified as the leading causes of accidents. This research serves as a foundational step for future studies aimed at creating a safer environment for pedestrians in the region.

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• pedestrian behavior perception