Pucher, J, Dikstra L. Promoting safe walking and cycling to improve public health: lessons from the Netherlands and Germany. Public Health Matters. 2003; 93(9): 1509-1516.
Summary: This article compares walking and biking behaviors and their related injuries and fatalities in The Netherlands, Germany, and the United States.
General Concensus: Most students thought this article was enlightening and appreciated that it pointed out diverse economic, social and political factors influencing drivers. Many also commented on the more stringent traffic regulations and increased social cohesion in Europe as key factors for pedestrian safety.
Additional Comments:
"The political and economic reasons to keep America driving need to be considered." (Social Work)
"Since the US was designed in most part around the automobile, which is different than European design, the US has a greater challenge to retrofit walkable environments." (URBDP)
"The authors are correct in saying that it really boils down to political will and the need to change social norms. We are conditioned to hop in our cars. Providing incentive to break this habit is necessary, much like with smoking. As obesity becomes recognized as the leading cause of death, perhaps we will then be able to ban cars in public places much like we have banned cigarettes." (EPI)