Examining Biological Motion as a Potential Factor in E-Scooter Conspicuity and Safety
Marshall L Mabry1, Curtis M Craig1, Peter Easterlund1
1University of Minnesota, USA.
Human Factors
|May 22, 2025
Summary
E-scooter riders are harder to detect than runners due to reduced biological motion. Enhancing conspicuity with biological motion may improve road safety for e-scooter users.
Area of Science:
- Human-computer interaction
- Perception psychology
- Road safety research
Background:
- E-scooter injuries are increasing, with motor vehicle collisions posing a significant risk.
- E-scooter riders' lack of biological motion may reduce their conspicuity to drivers.
- Understanding visual perception factors is crucial for improving road safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the detectability of e-scooter riders compared to other road users.
- To determine the impact of biological motion on visual detection of e-scooter riders.
- To explore methods for enhancing e-scooter conspicuity.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments used point-light displays under visual noise to assess detection.
- Study 1 compared detection of a runner, e-scooter rider, and object.
- Study 2 manipulated e-scooter motion, including biological and reverse motion patterns.
Main Results:
- Runners were detected, recognized, and responded to faster than e-scooter riders and objects.
- E-scooter riders with biological motion were perceived better than those with reverse motion.
- Reduced biological motion significantly worsened and slowed detection of e-scooter riders.
Conclusions:
- Reduced biological motion in e-scooter use diminishes conspicuity and slows detection by road users.
- Human body configurations offer a perceptual advantage.
- Apparent motion consistent with biological motion may enhance e-scooter detection and safety.
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