Fostering Sustainable Behavior

Factors Influencing the Decision to Drive or Walk Short Distances to Public Transport Facilities

Samples of drivers and walkers are examined to understand factors influencing the decision to walk. The driver sample was limited to those who lived within 1 km of the park-and-ride facility to avoid confounds such as car dependency and travel distance. These drivers exhibit a break in car dependency because they use public transport. A 62-item survey examines ten main factors: fear of crime; trip-chaining; weather; distance/time; social pressure; fatigue and fitness; parking charges; enjoyment of walking; inconvenience; and geography. Results show the convenience of a car park induces park-and-ride demand. Weather influences decisions to walk. However, walking is not impeded by factors such as distance, fear of crime, carriage of goods or concern for time.

Category:

• Transportation