Evaluation of Pedestrian Bridges and Pedestrian Safety in Jordan

Abstract

Car accidents represent a major problem in Jordan. It is the second major cause of death. More than 30% of all car accidents in Jordan involve pedestrians, a percentage considered very high compared to other countries such as the UK and USA.

The main objectives of this study are to collect data, analyze, and evaluate the pedestrian bridges and pedestrian safety in the greater Amman area. In addition, to develop regression prediction models that relate the percentage use of pedestrian bridges with possible factors that affecting the use of pedestrian bridges.

A sample of pedestrian bridges and tunnels were chosen for this study. Detailed data were collected from the location of each pedestrian bridge. The collected data was analyzed and used in forming the regression models. Several regression prediction models were formed and the best models were chosen. Also, a questionnaire survey was prepared and distributed to a random sample of pedestrians at the selected locations. Also, personal one-to-one interviews were conducted to collect more data from a random sample of pedestrian on the selected sites in order to study the pedestrian behavior and attitude in the area of a pedestrian bridge. It was concluded that pedestrian bridges have a positive impact and have great potential of reducing number of pedestrian fatalities. The main factors that affecting the use of pedestrian bridges are: the posted speed limit, the overall width of the cross walkway, and the existence of median barrier.

Key Words: Pedestrian Safety, Pedestrian Bridges, Traffic Accidents, Traffic Safety, Regression Models, Amman, Jordan.