Comment:
This section provides a working definition of each road and trail user group. The basic characteristics of the vehicles or devices used by each group are described, as are the users' varying abilities. Earlier studies of inline skates, scooters, strollers, electric bicycles, adult tricycles, recumbents, tandems, bicycle trailers, golf carts, and assistive technologies are referenced and are listed in the appropriate sections. Users groups include: Inline Skates, Skating Skill and Performance, Skateboards, Kick Scooters, Baby Strollers;Conventional Strollers, Jogging Strollers, Electric Bicycles, Recumbent Bicycles, Recumbent Tricycles, Tandem Recumbent Bicycles, Bicycle Trailers, Trailers with Two Wheels, Trailers with Single Wheel, Trailer Bicycles, Segway Human Transporter, Manual Wheelchairs, Power Wheelchairs, Assistive Powered Scooters, Adult Tricycles, Handcycles (Stand-Alone), Handcycle Wheelchair Attachment, Racing Wheelchairs, Other Road and Shared Path Users with Disabilities, Other Road and Shared Path Users.

Last Updated (Year): 2004

Year Produced: 2004

Abstract:

This study was undertaken to clarify the operational characteristics of an increasingly diverse group of trail and other nonmotorized transportation users. Three "Ride for Science" data collection events were conducted to obtain the physical dimensions, turning capabilities, lateral operating space, acceleration, speed, and stopping sight distance of trail users. The results confirmed the great diversity in the operating characteristics of various road and trail user types. Some examples of findings include: Sweep Width - The 85th percentile inline skater had a 1.5-m (4.9-ft) sweep width, wider than the AASHTO recommended width for bike lanes;Design Speed - Recumbent bicyclists had the highest observed 85th percentile speeds of 29 km/h (18 mph), less than AASHTO's minimum design speed;Horizontal Alignment - Most users did not reduce their speeds for turning radii greater than 16 m (52.5 ft);Stopping Sight Distance - A recumbent cyclist in the 85th percentile requires a stopping sight distance of 32.7 m (107.3 ft) on wet pavement, less than the AASHTO value;Signal Clearance Intervals - Five-second clearance intervals would provide insufficient time for most users (85th percentile users) to clear a five-lane [18.3-m (60-ft) wide] intersection;and Characteristics of Segway® Users - Many characteristics of Segway users were comparable with those of other emerging trail users. These findings suggest that design guidelines may need to be revised to incorporate the needs of emerging trail users. The results of this study can be used to help design professionals adequately design roadway and shared use path facilities to meet the operational and safety needs of this growing group of users.

For:Walking, Biking

The E's:Evaluation

Ped Bike Activity:

• Assessment

Ped Bike Topic:

• User Characteristics
• Planning

Resource Type:

• Information

Link to Content Source:

Characteristics of Emerging Road and Trail Users and Their Safety