PulseExploreJournal ClubDebatesTrendingResearchersJournals
Instagram
HomeExploreJournal ClubTrending
Synapse
⌘+K
Synapse
March 14, 2026Findings0 citationsOpen Access

Motonormativity and Speed Limits

JSJeremy de SousaAVAlessia VinetFCFrédérick Chabot

Key Points

  • This research aims to understand public perceptions regarding speed limits for e-bicycles compared to cars and the rationale behind these limits.
  • Participants responded to questions regarding speed limits for e-bicycles and cars.
  • Individual responses were randomly assigned to one vehicle type.
  • Evaluated public opinion on the necessity of speed restrictions.
  • Participants proposed stricter speed limits for e-micromobility compared to cars.
  • Findings indicate a discrepancy in public perception of hazard between vehicle types.
  • The research challenges the consistent application of safety principles in traffic regulations.

Abstract

The safe system approach to traffic danger proposes kinetic energy as the primary hazard. However, speed limitations are imposed on new travel options like e-bicycles that do not pose the same hazard as cars. This uneven application of rules to cars has been termed motonormativity. This research examined whether the general population would apply the same speed limits to the two vehicle types and asked why those limits should exist (or not). Individuals were randomly assigned to questions related to one mode. In conflict with the hazard approach, greater restrictions were proposed for e-micromobility modes.

Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper

Cite This Study

Sousa et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69b4fc1fb39f7826a300cbeehttps://doi.org/10.32866/001c.158762
Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper