Video- and survey-based analysis of pedestrian and cyclist behavior at an urban level crossing

Given the high risk of severe accidents at level crossings (LCs), this study examined legal and illegal crossings by pedestrians and cyclists at a high-traffic LC in Zagreb, Croatia. Survey data and field observations were collected to identify reasons for risky behavior. Behavior was observed under normal conditions and in the presence of various safety measures, including a railway gate keeper, police officer and educational posters in order to identify measures that can reduce risky behavior. Results show that the presence of a uniformed police officer at the LC was most effective at reducing illegal crossings, while the presence of cameras contributes significantly as well, especially after safety educational campaign when illegal crossing decrease for 59.23%. Based on this we can assume that in future the improvement regarding human behavior on LC could be made with cameras on LC and more frequent educational campaigns.