Separate bicycle facilities in urban areas. Effects on safety, mobility, perceived risk and modal share

Based on a review of cycle handbooks from different countries and of the international literature this report presents an overview of recommendations and applications as well as effects on safety, mobility, perceived risk and modal share of different types of bicycle infrastructure in urban areas. In general, separate bicycle may increase cycling and improve safety, but there are large differences between different types of bicycle facilities. Shared use path have the least favorable effects, especially in terms of mobility. For cycle lanes and cycle paths the effects mainly dependent on the specific design of the facilities. Adequate space, right of way at intersections, and a design that prevents conflicts with motorized traffic, other cyclists and pedestrians and direct routes have the most favorable effects on both safety, mobility, perceived risk and modal share.