The CyWalk project uses a new tool and a new method to record accidents involving walking, cycling, e-scooters, and other forms of micromobility.
These accidents are currently recorded to a very limited extent, as most injuries result from single-person accidents, which are rarely reported to the police. There is therefore a significant need for better data collection. In addition, we lack knowledge about where these accidents occur and what consequences they have for individuals.
Accident Registration
CyWalk is a continuation of the ReCyCLIST project, in which we developed a digital registration tool in the form of a short tablet-based questionnaire. Patients in Agder County in Norway were asked to complete the questionnaire when visiting emergency clinics, hospitals, and/or general practitioners following an accident involving cycling, e-scooters, or other forms of micromobility.
The digital questionnaire also includes a map function to pinpoint the accident location, as well as a “street view” feature that helps identify elements contributing to the accident (curbs, poles, potholes, etc.).
In CyWalk, we use the same method and tool, but we also include accidents involving pedestrians. In addition to Agder, the project now covers Oslo, Bergen, Buskerudbyen (Drammen, Øvre Eiker, Lier, Kongsberg), Nedre Glomma (Sarpsborg and Fredrikstad), Rogaland (Stavanger and Haugesund), Akershus (Asker and Bærum), and Trøndelag (Trondheim).
As in ReCyCLIST, patients are encouraged to register accidents themselves using their mobile phones by scanning a QR code available on posters and brochures at hospitals and emergency clinics. Those who need assistance receive help from healthcare personnel. Alternatively, patients can register the accident on an iPad on-site or via a link when they return home.
This approach worked very well in ReCyCLIST, where 671 accidents were recorded in Agder between June 2022 and April 2024. Accident registration in CyWalk will run from May 2024 to June 2026, with the possibility of extension in some locations.
Location Data as a Basis for Measures and Prevention
The main objective of the CyWalk project is to collect data on where accidents occur in order to identify accident hotspots and support the implementation of targeted measures.
We use advanced methods in spatial statistics to identify accident hotspots, in collaboration with NTNU.
Based on the results from accident and location data, we will implement and evaluate measures to improve road safety for cyclists and pedestrians. This work is carried out in collaboration with local authorities, Trygg Trafikk, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, and the Swedish research institute VTI.
Follow-up of Pedestrians Involved in Accidents
In addition to recording pedestrian accidents, we will follow up with pedestrians who have experienced accidents to examine whether the incident has led to changes in travel behavior and/or affected their quality of life.
Participants in the follow-up study are asked to complete a short questionnaire after registering their accident, and again after 1, 6, and 12 months.
We also invite individuals to participate in in-depth interviews about their experiences as pedestrians. We aim to speak with both frequent and infrequent walkers.
The interviews will focus on pedestrian accidents, including both falls and collisions, perceptions of risk, and what can be done to improve pedestrian safety. We also ask about experiences walking outdoors during the previous winter, including thoughts on using traction devices (e.g., ice grips) and reflectors. This study is part of the PhD project affiliated with the Department of Psychology at the University of Oslo.
Funding
The CyWalk project is funded by the Research Council of Norway, Agder County Authority, Vestland County Authority, the City of Oslo, the Buskerudbyen collaboration, the Nedre Glomma urban package, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, Rogaland County Authority, Akershus County Authority, the municipalities of Asker and Bærum, as well as Trøndelag County Authority and the City of Trondheim
