Location and factor territorials associated to bicycle accidents in Mexico City; Localización y factores territoriales asociados a los accidentes ciclistas en Ciudad de México

Abstract

The aim this study is to analyze the location of cycling accidents in Mexico City and to examine what type of territorial factors associated with the road and transportation structure have an impact on this type of accident. Using densities and a Poisson regression model, the incidence of cycling accidents on the urban structure is analyzed. In Mexico City, 6,341 cycling accidents were recorded for the period 2019-2023; the city center is recognized as the area with the highest incidence of this type of accident. Among the main factors that help explain cycling accidents are the presence of infrastructure for cycling mobility (bicycle lanes), major streets, high population density, employment and cars in circulation, as well as the highest concentration of traffic lights and concessioned and non-concessioned (surface) public transport routes. The fact that the highest incidence of cycling accidents is registered, territorially, in the center of Mexico City and, specifically, in the area with the largest and best infrastructure for cycling mobility, contrasts with the findings of other research that has shown that the provision of cycling infrastructure increases the perception of safety and significantly reduces accident rates. In Mexico City, research on cycling accidents should focus on identifying and studying (in addition to some general data, such as the day and time of occurrence), the individual characteristics (sex, age) and the material and immaterial factors involved in accidents, so as design and promote relevant policies to protect not only cyclists, but all road users.