Risk judgements and cycling frequency among winter cyclist in a Norwegian urban area

The aim of this study was to examine risk perception and travel behaviour related to cycling among Norwegians. Risk perception focuses on how risk is perceived by the individual. In Norway, to increase the number of cyclists and travellers using pro-environmental travel modes is given high priority by the authorities. This includes cycling during wintertime. The study of risk perception among cyclists is important to understand peoples transport choices and in the work with increasing the number of cyclists during the different seasons of the year. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey (n = 291) distributed in collaboration with The Norwegian Cyclist Association. The respondents were asked to evaluate the probability of an adverse event when cycling and the magnitude of its consequences and cycling frequency during the different seasons of the year. The respondents were also asked about worry related to cycling, risk tolerance, safety priority and attitudes toward traffic rules. The results showed that there were significant associations between risk perception and worry on the one hand and cycling frequency during wintertime on the other hand. Risk perception were not so important for cycling frequency the other seasons of the year. Even though the cyclists viewed the risk as low, risk is something they considered when cycling, especially during wintertime. The importance of risk judgements for cycling frequency during the different seasons of the year will be discussed.