Analyzing the Effect of Footbridges on Pedestrian-Involved Accidents (Case study: Rasht-Anzali Intercity Highway)

Considering the fact that the substantial proportion of traffic accidents are related to pedestrians necessitates the use of more facilities and as a far environment for pedestrians walking on the road. Footbridges are one of the most important and common facilities for pedestrians crossing the road. The main purpose of this research is to analyze the effect of footbridges on the pedestrian-related accidents on the case study of Rasht-Anzali roadway. Map of the road is prepared and the position of footbridges and population centers along the roadside are located. Accident rate before and after the installation of footbridges are compared. Results show that injury accidents on the footbridges decreased by 39%. Comparing accident rate at daytime and nighttime shows that accident rate is reduced at both times. Results of a questionnaire of pedestrians who use the footbridges show that safety is the main reason that they use footbridges. In addition, it is shown that elderly pedestrians are less likely than young pedestrians to use footbridges.