Exploring the prevalence and factors associated with self-reported traffic crashes among app-based motorcycle taxis in Vietnam

Motorcycle taxis play an important role in many developing countries, particularly in servicing areas where conventional public transport is not available. This form of transport has become more popular in recent years since online ride-hailing companies launched motorcycle taxi services. However, little is known about traffic crash risks among app-based motorcycle taxi riders. This study therefore aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with road traffic crashes among app-based motorcycle taxi riders. A field survey and online survey were undertaken to obtain information about riders' socio-demographics, work patterns, travel behaviour and crash involvement. A total of 602 valid survey responses from riders were obtained across three cities in Vietnam, including 571 males and 31 females. The overall reported prevalence of road traffic crashes among app-based motorcycle taxi riders over a one-year period was 30%. Binary logistic regression modelling showed that traffic crashes were associated with non-students, low education levels, high daily travel distances, regular smoking, and using a mobile phone while driving. Despite regulation of online ride-hailing motorcycle taxi services in Vietnam, the reported prevalence of crashes among riders is considered to be relatively high. Targeted interventions to reduce the risk of being involved in a crash should be considered, such as increasing road safety education for non-student riders and imposing a daily travel distance limit for riders