Risky Driving Behaviors Among Motorcyclists in Ecuador: A Study of Associated Factors

Abstract

Motorcycle crashes are a significant cause of injuries and deaths worldwide, with risky driving behaviors among motorcyclists being a significant contributing factor. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with risky driving behaviors among motorcyclists in an urban setting in Ecuador. Data were collected through observation of riders in the city of Loja, focusing on compliance with helmet usage, unfastened helmets, and distractions caused by cell phone usage while driving. The decision tree method was used to analyze the data. The results showed that wearing a helmet without fastening it and being distracted by the cell phone while driving were the most significant factors associated with unsafe driving behaviors among motorcyclists in Ecuador. Likewise, the riders of delivery motorcycles show more insecure behavior than those driving private motorcycles, especially when they are close to the economic center of the city. These findings can inform the development of road safety campaigns and the enactment of laws to reduce motorcycle accidents and improve rider safety.