Analyzing the Factors Influencing Scooter Usage and Safety Among Young Riders in Taiwan

Abstract: Approximately 1.24 million people die every year on the world’s roads, and another 20 to 50 million sustain nonfatal injuries as a result of road traffic crashes (WHO, 2013). Unfortunately, this number has not changed significantly over the past 10 years. Worldwide, traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for people aged 15-29 years and the ninth leading cause of death across all age groups (WHO, 2015). According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2005), motor vehicle accidents are the second most frequent cause of death for individuals aged 5-29 years, and projections indicate that these figures will increase by about 65 percent over the next 20 years unless new commitments to prevention are made (WHO, 2004). In Taiwan, statistics from the Directorate General of Highways indicate that in 2020, there were 14.97 million licensed scooter riders, among whom approximately 1.42 million were young people aged 18 to 25, representing nearly 10% of the total. A significant number of young individuals are involved in scooter accidents. Data from 2020 show that among the fatalities within 30 days of road traffic accidents, 293 were scooter riders aged 18-24 (including those riding large scooters). The age group 18-19 exhibits the highest fatality rates from scooter accidents. Additionally, the injury rate for individuals aged 18-29 is three times higher than for other age groups. The highest incidence of scooter accidents occurs among students and young professionals. This study aims to explore potential alternative transportation options for young people and their demand for such alternatives. We plan to conduct a quantitative survey among students aged 18-24 to understand their perceptions and attitudes towards transportation modes, their experiences with scooter use, and their satisfaction levels. We aim to collect at least 100 and up to 500 valid questionnaires for statistical analysis. The results will provide insights into the primary reasons young people in Taiwan use scooters as a means of transportation and identify potential demands for alternative transportation methods or enhanced safety designs for scooter riding. Ultimately, the goal is to propose suggestions for improving road traffic safety for scooter riders.

Keywords: Scooter Usage, Road Traffic Safety, Young Riders, User experience, User satisfaction.

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005777

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