The role of path surfacing and lighting conditions in shaping pedestrian and cyclist behaviour: a comprehensive video analysis

Abstract This study investigates how physical alterations of paths, including changes in surfacing and lighting conditions, impact the behaviour of pedestrians and cyclists. Using drone-based imaging technologies, data were collected from shared-use paths in two Swedish cities during periods of reduced daylight hours. The study focused on speed and slalom, examining how these measures varied across different subsets defined by combinations of physical changes and lighting conditions. The results reveal that both physical alterations and lighting conditions significantly influence pedestrian and cyclist behaviour. These findings provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between environmental factors and user behaviour on shared pathways. Understanding how changes in environmental features influence pedestrian and cyclist behaviour can guide urban planning and infrastructure design aimed at improving safety and efficiency for all path users.