Safe Transportation Research & Education Center

This research brief examines pedestrian/bicycle crash and infrastructure differences in rural versus urban communities. Using Sonoma County rural communities as a case study, the brief identifies key differences in pedestrian/bicycle crash characteristics, severities, and locations. It examines differences in the nature of active travel, demographics, and current pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure and future investments. Interviews with three planners working in the county are included to identify key community and infrastructure challenges and areas for opportunities in rural versus urban communities. The brief concludes with recommendations for more collaboration between the state and local agencies for conducting safety improvements in rural communities and urges planners to consider crash characteristics and differences in the nature of active travel when implementing said improvements.