Considering the effect of family structure on mode choice models for different trip purpose by using life cycle variables

Using appropriate variables that can consider individual, family and trip attribute effects on transportation decision is known as one of the most important part of transportation modeling. The goal of this study is using life cycle variables to have more accurate describing of family structure. For example life cycle can discriminate between families with similar number of children and adult but different children’s age, adult’s age and employment status and this discrimination will bring more accuracy for family attribute. This study use life cycle variables in trip mode choice modeling for different trips purpose. One of the most important results of this paper is substantial rule of life cycle variables compared with household size variable in educational, social-recreational and personal trips.