NCJ Number
105703
Journal
Transportation Research Volume: 20A Issue: 4 Dated: (1986) Pages: 285-293
Date Published
1986
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Using data from a 1983 victimization survey of 1,088 households in west central Los Angeles, this study examined the extent of bus crime and its effects on bus ridership.
Abstract
Frequency of bus use was the most important correlate of being victimized. An analysis of data for moderate and heavy bus users indicates that the elderly, women, Hispanics, and low-income persons were more likely to be victimized than were other subpopulations. There was a general perception that bus travel to downtown Los Angeles was more dangerous than travel within residential neighborhoods, and that night travel was much more dangerous than day travel. Women, Hispanics, and persons of low education were more likely to view bus use as dangerous, indicating a correspondence between the likelihood of victimization and perceived safety. In addition, those who had been victimized or knew a victim were more likely to perceive bus use as less safe. Finally, victims of and witnesses to bus crimes and those who perceived bus travel as less safe were less likely to use buses, especially during certain times and on certain routes. 4 tables and 27 references. (Author abstract modified)