The MONITOR project (collaboration between Vias institute and the FPS Mobility and Transport) is a study on the practice of more than 30,000 Belgians regarding mobility and road safety. The results show that they are very fond of their car: 56% of the daily trips are still carried out in a car. However, since the last study (2010), there was an interesting evolution in hte daily commute pattern: more cycling and walking. The use of bicycle has grown from 7 to 16%, and walking has grown from 8 to 16%.
The study also reveals that the motorcycle and the bicycle remain the most dangerous modes of transport. Furthermore, the respondents who use electric bicycles seem to undergo more dangerous situations than those who opt for the classic bicycles. The average speed (24 km/h versus 17 km/h) could explain that phenomenon.
Biking is becoming more popular, and it can bring an answer for the growing mobility problem. Therefore, it is necessary that we invest in a decent cycling infrastructure and a continious awareness of the car drivers. On the other hand, cyclists need to take their responsability, be cautious and protect themselves.
