Assessment of the possibility of using the «Vision zero» concept for the development of cycling in the Russian Federation

Abstract

The article considers the possibility of using the basic provisions of the “Vision zero” concept for the development of urban transport systems in the Russian Federation. In particular, for the development of cycling and the movement of personal mobility aids (SIM) in Russian cities. The “Vision zero” concept was adopted in Sweden in the mid-90s of the last century and its main task is to combat injuries and deaths as a result of road accidents. The main assumption that this concept accepts is the fact that it is human nature to make mistakes. Therefore, transport systems must be designed in such a way that they work flawlessly, and thus compensate for the imperfection of human activity. To successfully implement this concept, four basic principles must be followed: control and separation, functional harmony, predictability and simplicity, and the pursuit of limitations. To assess the possibility of implementing these principles in practice, it is necessary to understand the attitude of the local population to this issue. The easiest way to do this is to use opinion polls. And such surveys were conducted by MADI specialists in 2022-2024. An analysis of their results showed that, in general, residents of Moscow perceive well the changes in transport policy that correlate with the implementation of the concept of "Vision zero" in practice. Including those related to the development of cycling and SIM traffic. At the same time, surveys have shown that it will not be possible to painlessly implement the basic provisions of the concept in our country. Therefore, in conclusion, a list of measures necessary to overcome the transition period is proposed.