Patterns of risk-taking behaviors among motorcyclists at signalized intersections in Taiwan

Motorcyclists1 are the fastest-moving vulnerable road users, which made them overrepresented in injuries and fatalities. In Taiwan, motorcyclists account for approximately 60% of total fatalities each year, but little is known about prevalence risk-taking behaviors among motorcyclists. present study, a roadside observation was carried out to examine their unsafe riding behaviors, such as secondary task engagement, helmet non-use, traffic violations. 4030 were observed at three signalized intersections Tainan, Taiwan: 593 residential district, 1034 business park, 2403 city center. 7.3% engaged least one task, with phone use (3.5%) being most common one, followed by chatting others (1.6%). Although nearly all riders helmeted (98.9%), majority used non-standard helmets: 65.2% wore an open-face helmet, 21.0% half only 12.6% full-face helmet. 5.9% breaking rule intersections, violations that occurred often turn signal neglect (2.8%) red-light running (2.6%). These risky also associated contextual variables rider characteristics. The likelihood distracted increased red light, center, when younger, male, delivery workers, adult passenger. Traffic more frequent afternoon, on two-lane road. Furthermore, prevalent un-helmeted riders. Observations different weather conditions, contexts, locations recommended future studies further understand impact motorcyclists' adaptive behaviors.