Citation

Stearns MD. Transp. Res. Rec. 1976; 592: 38-40.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1976, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

An analysis of shifts in daily trip frequency, mode, and purpose during the 1973-74 national energy shortage is presented. Data was collected at the onset and peak of the energy shortage and the respondents were disaggregated by economic level by using Newman and Watchel's definition of poverty level, which combines total household income and household size.

RESULTS of the study suggest that travel elasticity is differently apportioned by income level. Therefore, disaggregate as well as aggregate behavior responses must be examined to determine potential changes. The income-related differentials in trip frequency and modal usage indicate that a portion of trip making is one of society's luxuries and that automobile ownership is mandatory for full societal participation.