Drivers’ Behavior while Interacting With E-Scooters in Urban Areas: An Assessment using Driving Simulation

E-scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in urban areas worldwide, offering mobility benefits and last-mile solutions while also presenting safety challenges related to increasing interactions between e-scooters and motor vehicles. This study used driving simulation to investigate driver behavior when interacting with e-scooters in diverse operating conditions replicating a two-lane urban street. Three conflict scenarios were examined: an e-scooter rider crossing at a crosswalk, an e-scooter rider crossing unexpectedly at mid-block from behind a parked vehicle, and e-scooters riding alongside traffic with and without bike lanes. Lateral position and speed profiles from twenty-four participants were analyzed in eight scenarios. Results indicate that 42% of drivers initially increased their speed to overtake the e-scooter but were often forced to slow down due to oncoming traffic. Speed behavior significantly varies depending on the presence of a bike lane on the street, with higher speeds observed in scenarios with the bike lane. Findings suggest that drivers may not always be aware of e-scooters and do not consistently drive safely, particularly in unexpected encounters. These insights underscore the need for safer design to protect both e-scooter riders and other road users. The results indicate that adding a bike lane enhances the safety of e-scooter riders.