Citation

Singer ME, Martens K. Transp. Res. D Trans. Environ. 2023; 121: e103834.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.trd.2023.103834

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In this paper we present and test a survey instrument to determine the prevalence and severity of travel problems, defined as any difficulty a person may experience in reaching destinations due to a poorly functioning transport system. The tool distinguishes between three types of travel problems: difficulties encountered while traveling; reliance on others; and forgoing trips. The deployment of the tool prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic offers a unique natural experiment. A series of tests for internal validity, consistency, and reliability, including confirmatory factor analysis, support two of the proposed travel problem indices (Reliance and Trips Forgone). Exploiting the natural experiment, known-group analyses and Two-Part regressions delivered evidence for the external validity of the indices and demonstrated the ability of the instrument to elicit insights on travel problems. We end with a research agenda for developing robust measurement tools that can be used in research and policymaking.

Language: en

Keywords

COVID; Mobility status; Travel insecurity; Travel problems