Impacts of motorcycles in Westminster bus lanes

Bus lanes are implemented to assist buses by-pass traffic queues. They reduce travel times and can improve reliability. Pedal cycles are also generally permitted to use these lanes and motorcyclists are being considered for admission however there are some concerns. Motorcycles are capable of high acceleration and are manoeuvrable. It is therefore possible their rider’s behaviour could result in them coming into conflict with other road users and pedestrians crossing the road who were not expecting motorcycles in bus lanes. One possible conflict is with vehicles turning right into a junction. The motorcyclist travelling in the bus lane could be obscured by stationary traffic in the non-priority lane and come into conflict with the turning vehicle. This study builds upon results from previous research conducted in Bristol and Swindon. It examined motorcycle riders permitted to use eight bus lanes in the City of Westminster, London. A number of survey techniques were combined to assess impacts on bus operations, motorcycle journey times and the safety of motorcyclists and other road users. This report is based upon the findings from a number of sources including conflict analysis and STATS19 accident analysis. The STATS19 analysis was necessarily restricted and further accident analysis is planned.