Individual gain, societal pain: When personal mobility solutions become public problems

Introduction Rapid motorization in low- and middle-income countries has made motorcycles an increasingly popular yet high-risk mode of transport, posing significant public health and policy challenges. In Bogotá, Colombia, motorcyclists account for nearly half of all traffic-related fatalities, disproportionately affecting lower-income residents. This study investigates the behavioral, psychosocial, and structural determinants influencing motorcycle dependence. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 781 adult motorcycle riders, representative of Bogotá's motorcycling population. The survey captured data on travel behavior, road-safety experience, perceived injury risk, underlying motivations, and mobility satisfaction. A hybrid choice model was employed to assess the influence of sociodemographic characteristics, travel demand policies, risk propensity personality traits, and latent psychosocial constructs—based on the Theory of Planned Behavior—on the intention to use motorcycles. These constructs included instrumental and affective attitudes, perceived social norms, and perceived behavioral control. Results Affective attitudes—such as enjoyment and a sense of freedom—emerged as strong positive predictors of continued motorcycle use. In contrast, instrumental attitudes—emphasizing practicality and necessity—indicated a potential openness to mode shift if attractive alternatives were available. Policy simulations revealed that regulatory measures such as license plate-based circulation restrictions, increased taxation, and passenger bans significantly discouraged motorcycle use. Conversely, improvements in public transport showed limited influence due to persistent negative perceptions of its reliability and safety. Conclusions The findings highlight the need for comprehensive strategies that address both rational economic considerations and the psychosocial motivations behind motorcycle dependence. Effective interventions in rapidly motorizing cities must combine strong enforcement, improved public transport, economic incentives, and behavior change campaigns to reduce traffic injuries and promote healthier urban environments.