Experimental Investigation of Pedestrians Interacting with E-Scooter Riders on Residential Roads

Abstract

The integration of e-scooters in urban environments particularly on residential sidewalks has raised significant concerns about pedestrian safety and comfort. Therefore, it is crucial to understand pedestrian behaviour when interacting with e-scooters on residential sidewalks. This study aimed to examine pedestrians’ avoidance behaviour while interacting with e-scooter riders traveling at different speed levels and positions on residential sidewalks. A total of 75 participants took part in an experimental study conducted in a virtual reality (VR) environment. The results showed that the position and speed of the e-scooter has a significant impact on pedestrian behaviour. The lowest side personal space between the participant and the e-scooter was observed when the approaching e-scooter was in the centre of the sidewalk. In addition, higher side personal space at 30 km/h was observed when the e-scooter was on either side of the sidewalk. Front personal space was greater at 30 km/h compared to 10 km/h, suggesting increased pedestrian discomfort at higher speeds. Furthermore, older participants tended to maintain higher side personal space. The findings of this study can be useful in designing and developing guidelines for sidewalks to accommodate e-scooters, including setting speed limits and designating specific spaces.