Estrategias de Prevención en Seguridad Vial para Motociclistas en Villavicencio: Propuesta para Reducir el Alto Índice de Accidentalidad

Abstract

Road traffic accidents in intermediate Colombian cities, such as Villavicencio, disproportionately affect motorcyclists and reveal the limited effectiveness of traditional strategies focused on sanctions and informational campaigns. This study aimed to design a comprehensive road safety prevention model for motorcyclists in Villavicencio, integrating educational, regulatory, infrastructure, and behavioral economics components. The research followed a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach, using a case study with semi-structured interviews of 39 motorcyclists and 4 key stakeholders, complemented by documentary analysis and triangulation of data (perceptions, official statistics, and academic literature). The results identified six categories: risk perception, social factors, risk behaviors, infrastructure conditions, evaluation of current strategies, and improvement proposals. Findings showed that although motorcyclists acknowledge the risks, there is excessive confidence based on experience, low perception of danger on familiar routes, and behaviors influenced by social pressure, all exacerbated by infrastructure deficiencies in critical corridors such as Avenida Catama and the Anillo Vial. Current strategies have demonstrated low recall, limited coverage, and lack of continuity, reducing their impact. As a contribution, the study proposes a comprehensive model that combines pedagogical and emotional campaigns, proportional and sustained enforcement, targeted infrastructure interventions, and the application of nudges and positive incentives from behavioral economics. This approach seeks to transform perceptions and habits, offering a viable and replicable alternative to reduce road traffic accidents and promote a cultural shift in road safety.