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Exploring factors for predicting the deterrent effect of darkness on cycling in urban areas

Author

Listed:
  • Yesiltepe, Demet
  • Fotios, Steve
  • Balela, Maan
  • Uttley, Jim

Abstract

In this work we use Odds Ratios (ORs) to establish the impact of darkness on the number of cyclists across 117 locations in five cities (Arlington (VA, USA), Bergen (Norway), Berlin (Germany), Birmingham and Leeds (UK)) using data from automated counters. We considered four reasons to explain the variance in ORs between counter locations: lighting condition (whether lit or unlit), the proportion of recreational journeys, distance from the city centre and the number of cyclists. The results suggest that lighting condition had the greatest influence, followed by the proportion of recreational journeys and the number of cyclists. The model developed to predict ORs explained 65% of the variance.

Suggested Citation

  • Yesiltepe, Demet & Fotios, Steve & Balela, Maan & Uttley, Jim, 2026. "Exploring factors for predicting the deterrent effect of darkness on cycling in urban areas," SocArXiv jfkhc_v1, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:socarx:jfkhc_v1
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/jfkhc_v1
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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