Enhancing Road Safety by Addressing the Risky Behaviour of Commercial Riders of Powered Two-Wheelers in Developing Countries

This PhD research project investigates the need for behavioural change and intervention design to enhance powered two-wheeler (PTW) safety, primarily in Low- and Middle-Income Countries where more than 90% of global road fatalities occur. The project addresses the growing road safety concerns associated with the gig economy and the urban delivery business, examining risky behaviours of commercial PTW riders including helmet use, mobile phone usage, red light running, and speeding. The research aims to compare delivery and private PTW riders and investigate work pressures associated with delivery riding that encourage risky behaviours on the road. Study variables include electric bikes versus pedal bikes, gender differences, trip purpose, age, socioeconomic status, infrastructure, location, education level, and presence of law enforcement. Findings will be used for devising policies to reduce crashes of motorcycle taxis and couriers, complementing safety measures for other road users. Results will inform targeted interventions as online delivery services have become increasingly popular in recent years. Stakeholders include governments, transport authorities, delivery companies, and infrastructure designers who can apply findings to develop appropriate countermeasures in legislation, rider training, employment obligations, and road space design. The project is supervised by Professor Oliver Carsten and Dr Yue Huang at the Institute for Transport Studies, University of Leeds, with a project start date of October 1, 2026.