Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Auto Bike Drivers towards Traffic Laws: A Cross-Sectional Study in Khulna City Corporation (KCC) Area of Bangladesh

Abstract

The rapid increase in unregulated, battery-powered auto bikes, commonly known as “easy bikes,” has reshaped urban mobility in many Bangladeshi cities, particularly Khulna. While these vehicles offer affordable transport, they also contribute to significant traffic safety challenges due to lack of regulation, insufficient driver training, and poor adherence to traffic laws. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of auto bike drivers regarding traffic laws in the Khulna City Corporation (KCC) area and explored the relationship between KAP levels and drivers’ socio-demographic and work-related characteristics. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 460 auto bike drivers in the KCC area using a semi-structured interview schedule. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi-square tests to examine associations between KAP levels and variables such as age, education, residence, driving experience, and license status. Drivers under 30 years of age and those with secondary education showed significantly higher knowledge of traffic laws (p < 0.01). Positive attitudes were more prevalent among educated and urban participants (p < 0.10). Good traffic practices were significantly associated with religion, residence, and number of working days (p < 0.05). The overall KAP score was higher among younger, urban drivers with daily driving experience and formal education (p < 0.01). The findings highlight critical gaps in traffic law knowledge and safe driving practices among certain subgroups of auto bike drivers. Targeted educational campaigns, stricter regulatory oversight, and mandatory licensing could significantly improve road safety in Khulna and other urban areas in Bangladesh.